Amid escalating tensions between the United States and Russia over the ongoing war in Ukraine, former President and current Deputy Chairman of Russia’s Security Council, Dmitry Medvedev, issued highly provocative statements that prompted United States President Donald Trump to order the deployment of two nuclear submarines to strategic locations.
President Trump announced this precautionary measure via the social media platform Truth Social, warning that Medvedev’s words may lead to dangerous consequences beyond rhetoric.
Trump’s directive came after he issued what he described as a final warning to Russia urging either a ceasefire in Ukraine or facing severe sanctions. In response, Medvedev referenced the Soviet era “Dead Hand” automatic nuclear retaliation system, a Cold War mechanism designed to launch a nuclear strike if Russian leadership was incapacitated.
While the exact locations of the deployed submarines remain classified for security reasons, such information is typically withheld by the United States. It is also unclear whether the submarines in question are armed with nuclear weapons or are conventionally armed but nuclear-powered. Nevertheless, either type serves as a strategic deterrent against Russian aggression.
This move marks a significant escalation in both military preparedness and verbal confrontations, reminiscent of Cold War-era nuclear brinkmanship. President Trump emphasized the seriousness of the situation and the importance of military readiness in responding to nuclear threats.
Although Dmitry Medvedev is not Russia’s top decision maker, his role within the Security Council makes him a powerful voice, and he is widely known for his incendiary rhetoric.
The rising tensions also stem from Trump’s repeated threats to impose sanctions on Moscow and its allies, along with tightening deadlines for ending the conflict in Ukraine. His statement regarding the deployment of nuclear submarines reflects the United States’ deepening concern over Russia’s actions and its increasingly aggressive tone.