Kremlin Dismisses Trump’s Nuclear Threat as US

Russia has downplayed recent nuclear rhetoric from US President Donald Trump, who ordered two submarines to reposition closer to Russian waters. While Trump did not specify if the submarines were nuclear-powered or nuclear-armed, his move stirred global concern. In response, the Kremlin advised caution, rejecting any suggestion of heightened tensions.

Peskov Warns Against Escalation

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov was the first to respond officially, noting that American submarines are already on routine combat duty. He described Trump’s announcement as emotionally charged but insisted there was no real escalation on the ground.

“These are very complex and sensitive matters,” said Peskov, urging global leaders to avoid inflammatory language. “Everyone should be very cautious when discussing anything related to nuclear rhetoric,” he added.

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Trump Responds to Medvedev

Trump’s submarine order followed what he described as “highly provocative” statements by former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. The Russian official, known for his increasingly aggressive online remarks, had accused Trump of issuing ultimatums to Russia after the US president imposed a new peace deadline for ending the war in Ukraine.

Though Trump avoided naming Medvedev directly, the timing of his actions suggests a direct reaction. Medvedev has not responded publicly and has been inactive on social media since posting his controversial comments.

US Envoy Heads to Moscow

Despite rising tensions, diplomatic lines remain open. US envoy Steve Witkoff is scheduled to visit Moscow on Wednesday, according to Russian media reports. The Kremlin welcomed the visit, seeing it as an opportunity for dialogue.

“We are always happy to see Mr Witkoff in Moscow,” said Peskov. “We consider such contact important, meaningful, and useful.” He also hinted at the possibility of a meeting between Witkoff and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

New Deadline and Potential Tariffs

Trump has set a new deadline for Russia to end its war in Ukraine, warning that severe sanctions will follow if a ceasefire is not reached by Friday, August 8. These would include harsh tariffs on Russian oil and other exports. Additionally, secondary sanctions could target countries that continue trading with Moscow.

Yet even Trump acknowledged the limitations of sanctions. He admitted Russia has become skilled at evading economic penalties, despite being the most sanctioned country in the world.

No Ceasefire in Sight

So far, three rounds of negotiations between Russia and Ukraine have failed to achieve meaningful progress. Putin reiterated last week that Russia’s goals remain unchanged: to eliminate what he calls the “roots of the Ukraine crisis” and secure Russia’s long-term security.

Russia’s preconditions for peace remain steep. The Kremlin demands that Ukraine become a neutral state, scale down its military, and abandon its aspirations to join NATO. These terms are unacceptable to Kyiv and its Western allies, making a breakthrough unlikely.

Putin Drives Foreign Policy

While Medvedev’s online outbursts often gain attention, Peskov clarified that only Putin sets Russian foreign policy. “In every country, members of the leadership have different points of view,” he said. “But our policy is determined solely by President Putin.”

This statement aims to contain the political fallout from Medvedev’s remarks and reinforce the idea that Moscow’s decisions are not dictated by inflammatory rhetoric.

Tensions Rise but Talks Continue

Despite the war of words, both Washington and Moscow continue to engage diplomatically. The planned visit by Witkoff signals a willingness to keep communication channels open, even as both sides prepare for more pressure and confrontation.

Trump’s nuclear rhetoric may grab headlines, but Moscow appears more focused on managing the fallout through quiet diplomacy. Whether these latest developments will bring either side closer to ending the conflict remains uncertain, but for now, both capitals seem willing to talk—if not yet to compromise