On 4/8, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov addressed a Moscow press conference, stating, "Russia is very concerned about the topic of nuclear non-proliferation. We believe everyone should exercise extreme caution with statements about nuclear weapons,".
This statement followed President Trump's 1/8 declaration that he had deployed nuclear submarines to a relevant area. This deployment was in response to what he called "highly provocative" remarks by Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev, and as a precaution in case "these inflammatory statements are not just words".
On 3/8, President Trump added that the American nuclear submarines were "in the area of Russia", but did not provide specific details.
Peskov downplayed the seriousness of Trump's remarks, stating that the deployment of American submarines in a state of combat readiness is a standard, ongoing process, independent of political rhetoric.
"Overall, we don't want to be drawn into such a debate and do not wish to comment on it in any way," Peskov added.
 |
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov in Moscow on 23/6. Photo: Reuters |
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov in Moscow on 23/6. Photo: Reuters
Peskov noted that Russia did not interpret Trump's statement as a sign of escalating nuclear tensions. "Clearly, very complex and sensitive issues are being discussed, and of course, many people perceive them very emotionally," he added.
He declined to answer directly when asked if the Kremlin planned to ask Medvedev to reduce his online exchanges with Trump.
"In every country, members of the leadership have different views and attitudes about current events. In the US and Europe, there are also those who maintain very hardline views, so such things always happen. The most important thing is President Putin's position. Everyone knows that in our country, foreign policy is determined by President Putin," Peskov emphasized.
Trump has had several disagreements with Medvedev. "Russia and the US are practically not cooperating with each other. Let's keep it that way and tell Mr. Medvedev to be careful with his words. He is entering dangerous territory!" the White House chief said.
Tensions between Washington and Moscow have escalated as Trump repeatedly warned of sanctions if Russia does not reach a ceasefire agreement in Ukraine before 8/8. He also announced that special envoy Steve Witkoff will visit Russia on 6-7/8, ahead of the ultimatum deadline.
Huyen Le (AFP, Reuters)
