Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council, expressed skepticism today about the United States' ability to act as an effective mediator in global conflicts. Speaking at an education forum in Moskva, Medvedev stated, "A country that kidnaps leaders of other nations and arbitrarily initiates conflicts can hardly be considered an effective mediator in any situation".

Medvedev appeared to be referring to the US-Israel campaign against Iran and Washington's raid to arrest Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife in January.

This statement contrasts with the broader view of the Russian leadership, which maintains that the US is playing an active role in seeking a peaceful solution to the Ukraine conflict. However, Medvedev also assessed that President Donald Trump's administration is working to resolve the conflict, a different approach from his predecessor, Joe Biden.

Russia's security council deputy chairman at an event near Moskva in 9/2025. Photo: AFP.

Since returning to the White House, President Trump has pushed for improved relations with Russia, aiming to end the conflict in Ukraine. Washington has mediated several talks between Moskva and Kiev, though no breakthrough has been achieved.

Kremlin foreign policy advisor Yuri Ushakov said on 29/4 that during a phone call between President Vladimir Putin and his counterpart Donald Trump, the two leaders shared similar assessments of President Volodymyr Zelensky's administration. They believe Kiev "is pursuing a policy of prolonging the conflict".

Medvedev is one of Russia's most hardline politicians, frequently making sharp comments on international affairs.

Also at the education forum, Russia's Security Council deputy chairman stated that Europe is undergoing rearmament, comparing this situation to "the period before World War II".

He remarked, "Regarding Europe, we have no intention of attacking. However, a huge amount of weapons is being produced, and almost all European leaders, even those from large countries, constantly say 'we must prepare to repel aggression, war is inevitable'. Everyone understands where this path leads, however regrettable that sounds".

Medvedev emphasized that "if someone repeatedly says every day that war is inevitable, then eventually it will actually happen".

He added, "War requires many reasons and preconditions. Therefore, the task of politicians today is to de-escalate the situation and try to bring everything back to constructive negotiations". The Russian official suggested that some in Europe understand this, but "the United States understands it even better because they are more pragmatic than Europeans".

Huyen Le (According to TASS, Reuters)