The Kremlin’s response has been notably muted to former President Donald Trump’s big, new, bombastic statements about nuclear submarines. Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin’s spokesperson, further underscored Moscow’s lack of interest in discussing the matter. Instead, they find the time to pass unrelated legislation. Peskov noted that Trump’s statements would make front-page news. They are not enough to make a real difference and significantly improve the current nuclear readiness posture.
At a press briefing last Friday, Peskov focused on the U.S. subs that are already in combat duty. He pointed out that what matters most is the operational status of American forces not just the talk. He cautioned the world not to play with nuclear rhetoric, highlighting Russia’s dedication to their obligations under nuclear non-proliferation.
Moscow is extremely sensitive on the subject of nuclear non-proliferation. And we think you should be extremely, extremely careful with the nuclear rhetoric. In response, Peskov remarked, indicating the Kremlin’s desire to continue a prudent approach to any discussions related to nuclear weapons.
Peskov further asserted that Russia understands “only one thing: strength.” This fact reveals the core of the current theme of Russian defense policy. Further, it focuses on the importance of military readiness and demonstrating military strength in order to protect our national security interests.
While countering Trump’s submarine threats was one thing on Peskov’s agenda, he addressed the need for a Trump-Putin sit down. He was hopeful that talks on U.S. envoy Witkoff’s visit later this week might trigger more serious discussions. Peskov applauded Witkoff’s visit as “important, substantial and helpful.” He said he focused on the Kremlin’s view of it as an opportunity for constructive engagement.
Importantly, Peskov’s remarks were made against a backdrop of escalatory rhetoric and military posturing by Russia towards Ukraine. In response, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov denied the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s allegations. He continued that focus by bringing awareness to the impacts that drone strikes have on civilian first responders in active conflict areas. Zelenskyy was right to denounce these actions in the strongest possible terms. It’s not something that happens almost every city or locality within range of Russian drones, he said. The Russian army destroys everything that moves and is alive.
Zelenskyy’s comments are a solemn reminder of the deepening humanitarian crisis across Ukraine due to the ongoing war. He has long called for more robust international actions against Russia, advocating for severe sanctions and military support from Western allies. We rely upon concerted action and wise judgment from the US, Europe, and beyond to make smart choices about secondary sanctions on Russian energy trade and Moscow’s banking system. Ukraine expects prompt implementation of each and every deal to bolster its defense that it has established with partners. Each day of postponement means death of our citizens,” Zelenskyy stressed.
In that context, with tensions continuing to rise over military tactics and humanitarian crises, the Kremlin continues to hone in on nuclear readiness. In parallel, it remains active in international conversations. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov downplays the significance of Trump’s comments. Instead, he draws on Russia’s military stance to drive home the point that strength and constant vigilance are at the heart of Russian policy.