Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council and intimate of President Vladimir Putin, has continued to intensify his personal attacks on former U.S. President Donald Trump. Their war of words has recently turned personal and poisonous. Trump’s ultimatum to Russia over military aggression in Ukraine. In a tit-for-tat exchange, Medvedev responded with ominous threats and budding nuclear sabre rattling. Although still wartime, the conflict between Ukraine and Russia has reached a deadlock. Neither leader appears to be backing down, and both are employing increasingly aggressive rhetoric, leading to fears of a possible miscalculation.
Medvedev, who previously served as president from 2008 to 2012 while Putin was prime minister, has a long-standing relationship with the Russian leader. When Medvedev’s presidency was over, Putin reset and re-assumed the highest office. Concurrently, Medvedev held the office of prime minister until 2020. Their intertwined political careers have cultivated a mutually antagonistic political culture towards Western leaders, exacerbated by the current backdrop of conflict between Russia and Ukraine/Western powers.
The exchange really boiled over on July 28. On that day, Trump announced that Russia should stop its assault against Ukraine in the next “10 or 12 days,” otherwise it would experience economic retaliation. Medvedev turned around and rejected these threats just as swiftly, calling them “theatrical” and claiming that “Russia didn’t give a hoot” about Trump’s deadlines. The deputy chairman’s comments therefore seem clearly designed as a trial balloon for a strategic move to bait Trump into responding.
Medvedev’s Provocative Responses
Medvedev has used colorful rhetoric and pop culture allusions to make his case in more imaginative ways in his responses. He insisted that Trump remove the delusion that Russia is the same as Israel or Iran. His bold prediction was that each new ultimatum would increase international tension as well as create further civil unrest within the United States.
“He should remember 2 things: 1. Russia isn’t Israel or even Iran. 2. Each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war. Not between Russia and Ukraine, but with his own country.” – Dmitry Medvedev
Medvedev continued to tease Trump’s cinematic allusion prowess by referencing the hit zombie apocalypse drama “The Walking Dead.” This testimony illustrates the indiscriminate and destructive power of Russia’s military assets. It highlights the existential threat represented by their growing nuclear arsenal.
“And as for the ‘dead economy’ of India and Russia and ‘entering dangerous territory’ — well, let Trump remember his favourite films about the ‘Walking Dead’.” – Dmitry Medvedev
Medvedev’s bombastic pronouncements put him at the forefront of the Russian government’s war hawks. They show his willingness to go tit for tat in a heated exchange of words while the war still rages.
Trump’s Military Posturing
Trump’s reaction was appropriately strong to Medvedev. He has ordered the military to deploy nuclear submarines closer to Russia’s borders as a show of strength and preparedness. He called others on their bluff about undercutting U.S. military capabilities. In doing so, he cast his actions as preemptive strikes against “foolish and inflammatory statements.”
“I have ordered two Nuclear Submarines to be positioned in the appropriate regions, just in case these foolish and inflammatory statements are more than just that.” – Donald Trump
Trump’s implicit argument for his presidency is through strength – particularly military strength. He misleadingly claims the U.S. has cutting-edge technology and weaponry that puts it far ahead of potential adversaries. The Secretary also attempted to reassure Americans of the U.S. military’s capabilities in this increased rhetorical exchange.
“If anyone thinks our ‘hardware’ was great over the weekend, far and away the strongest and best equipment we have, 20 years advanced over the pack, is our Nuclear Submarines.” – Donald Trump
Even President Trump acknowledged the risks in using this kind of provocative language. He underscored the need for diplomatic dialogue to prevent unintended escalations.
“Words are very important, and can often lead to unintended consequences; I hope this will not be one of those instances.” – Donald Trump
The Broader Context
The most recent conversations between Trump and Medvedev are taking place in the shadow of collapse talks between Ukraine and Russia. The lack of progress has only fueled tensions as each side stakes its claims on international legitimacy and military might.
It appears as though Medvedev relishes getting under Trump’s skin. He’s positioning his answers as strategic counter-moves to demonstrate Russia’s lack of willingness. His comments are clearly meant to rebut Trump’s assertions. Yet at the same time, they reinforce a narrative that paints Russia as victorious and strong in the face of outside pressure.
“If some words from the former president of Russia trigger such a nervous reaction from the high-and-mighty president of the United States, then Russia is doing everything right and will continue to proceed along its own path.” – Dmitry Medvedev
Both leaders are currently locked in a high-stakes diplomatic duel. Inside this high-stakes exchange, analysts are concerned that poor communication or rapid escalation is all too easy.
