Kremlin plays down Trump's nuclear rhetoric as US envoy set to visit Moscow

August 4, 2025

The Kremlin has downplayed President Trump's recent orders to move two nuclear submarines closer to Russia, with spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissing claims of escalation while cautioning about nuclear rhetoric. This development follows Trump's response to provocative comments by former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev after Trump set an August 8 deadline for Russia to reach a peace deal with Ukraine. Despite tensions, diplomatic channels remain open with US envoy Steve Witkoff scheduled to visit Russia on Wednesday, potentially meeting with President Putin.

Who is affected

Russia and the United States
Ukraine
Countries trading with Russia (potential secondary impacts from threatened tariffs)
Global security stakeholders concerned about nuclear posturing

What action is being taken

The US is positioning two nuclear submarines closer to Russia
The Kremlin is diplomatically downplaying the submarine movement
US envoy Steve Witkoff is visiting Russia on Wednesday
Trump is setting an August 8 deadline for Russia to reach a peace deal with Ukraine
Three rounds of peace talks between Russia and Ukraine are continuing without resolution

Why it matters

The exchange signals potential escalation in US-Russia tensions despite initially improved relations under Trump
Nuclear posturing raises global security concerns
Trump's deadline and threatened tariffs represent a new approach to pressuring Russia on Ukraine
The diplomatic engagement occurs amid stalled peace negotiations
Russia's continued maximalist demands for peace remain unacceptable to Ukraine and Western allies

What's next

US envoy Steve Witkoff will visit Russia on Wednesday with a possible meeting with Putin
If a ceasefire is not reached by Friday, August 8, Trump has stated he would impose sanctions and secondary tariffs on Moscow

Read full article from source: BBC