Dmitry Medvedev, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has launched a scathing attack on European leaders, accusing them of failing to outmanoeuvre Russia during the recent Ukraine summit. The former Russian president mocked their efforts, suggesting they were too preoccupied with "sucking up" to former US President Donald Trump to effectively address the escalating crisis.
Medvedev's comments come just weeks after his own inflammatory war threats prompted the US to deploy a nuclear submarine to the region, further heightening tensions. His remarks underscore the growing divide between Russia and the West as the conflict in Ukraine shows no signs of abating.
Medvedev's Provocative Rhetoric
Known for his fiery rhetoric, Medvedev did not hold back in his criticism of European diplomacy. He claimed that the summit had achieved little, with Western leaders failing to present a united front against Moscow. "Their attempts to outplay us were laughable," he said, adding that their reliance on Trump-era policies had left them vulnerable.
US Military Response
The US decision to send a nuclear submarine to European waters was widely seen as a direct response to Medvedev's earlier threats of military escalation. Analysts suggest that this move signals Washington's commitment to deterring further Russian aggression, even as diplomatic efforts falter.
Meanwhile, European officials have dismissed Medvedev's comments as propaganda, insisting that their strategy remains focused on supporting Ukraine while avoiding direct confrontation with Russia. However, the public spat highlights the deepening mistrust between the two sides.
What Comes Next?
With no breakthrough in sight, the standoff over Ukraine continues to test the limits of international diplomacy. Medvedev's latest outburst serves as a stark reminder of the volatile nature of the conflict—and the high stakes for all involved.
