On Friday, US President Donald Trump announced on his Truth Social platform that he has ordered two nuclear submarines to move close to Russia, in response to social media comments by former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. The decision was made after a recent exchange of sharp words between the two leaders, with Trump condemning Medvedev’s statements as ‘foolish and inflammatory,’ warning that words can lead to unintended consequences. Medvedev, who currently serves as deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council, has been engaged in a bitter war of words with Trump on social media, with the former Russian leader mocking the American president’s reaction to his post, suggesting it only proved that Russia was on the right path.
The exchange of harsh words began when Trump, on his Truth Social platform, branded Medvedev a ‘failed’ former leader and warned him to ‘watch his words.’ In response, Medvedev mocked Trump’s ‘nervous reaction,’ implying that it only proved that ‘Russia is doing everything right and will continue to proceed along its own path.’ He also referenced the legendary Perimetr system, an autonomous nuclear retaliation mechanism dating back to the Soviet era. The Perimetr system is believed to be a ‘dead man’s switch’ capable of firing Russia’s remaining nuclear arsenal automatically in the event of a devastating first strike that eliminates the country’s leadership and breaks the chain of command responsible for ordering retaliation.
Trump’s announcement of the military response did not include detailed explanations, but it was clear that the decision was a direct reaction to Medvedev’s social media post. Although the specific provocation was not elaborated upon, it is evident that the former Russian leader’s remarks were seen as a direct challenge to the American president. The situation highlights the escalating tensions between the United States and Russia, with both leaders using social media as a platform for their confrontations. This incident underscores the potential for diplomatic friction to escalate into military posturing, especially in the current geopolitical climate.