Moscow
A top Russian lawmaker claimed Russia has more nuclear submarines at sea than the United States. This comes after US President Donald Trump said he had ordered two nuclear submarines to move to “appropriate regions” in response to strong words from former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev.
Viktor Vodolatsky, deputy chairman of a key Russian parliamentary committee, dismissed Trump’s move. He said Russian submarines are already well-positioned and heavily armed, and they have been monitoring the US vessels.
He also said there is no need for Russia to respond directly. "Trump changes his views every 24 hours. His submarines are already under watch," Vodolatsky told Russian news agency TASS.
Trump made his announcement on Truth Social, saying Medvedev’s recent comments were dangerous. “Words can lead to unintended consequences,” Trump posted. He did not reveal where the submarines were sent or which ones were involved.
Vodolatsky said instead of aggressive moves, the US should focus on improving relations. He suggested both sides work on a peaceful agreement to calm global tensions and avoid World War III.
The dispute began after Medvedev responded to Trump’s shortened deadline for a Russia-Ukraine ceasefire — from 50 days to just 10. Medvedev warned that each ultimatum increased the risk of war between Russia and the US.
Medvedev also mocked Trump’s earlier remarks about Russia’s economy, warning him not to forget the danger of what he called “the dead.” He made references to zombie movies and Russia’s feared “dead hand” nuclear system.
The back-and-forth has raised global concern amid already tense US-Russia relations.