Tensions between Russia and the United States have grown worse after a series of sharp exchanges involving former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, former U.S. President Donald Trump, and current Russian President Vladimir Putin. The heated back-and-forth focuses on the ongoing war in Ukraine and Trump’s increasingly harsh criticism of Putin.
The latest increase in tensions started with Trump’s strong disapproval of Putin’s actions in Ukraine. Trump accused Putin of behaving recklessly, saying that Putin’s decisions could lead to very serious problems for Russia. He suggested that Russia would have been in much worse trouble without his own past involvement. These statements came after a drone strike on Kyiv that killed civilians, leading Trump to call Putin “absolutely crazy.”
Shafaq reported that Medvedev responded to Trump’s remarks on X with a serious warning, referring to Trump’s claim that Putin was “playing with fire” and predicting “really bad things” for Russia. Medvedev said the only truly disastrous outcome would be the start of World War III, directly connecting Trump’s criticisms to the possibility of a global war. This forceful reply emphasized how serious the situation is and how rising tensions in words could lead to dangerous results.
Former Russian president warns of global war after Trump comments
This exchange shows a major change in Trump’s attitude toward Russia. In the past, Trump had spoken positively about Putin and Russia, a position that often brought criticism. Now, his sudden shift to strong condemnation marks a big difference from his earlier views and makes the already tense geopolitical situation even more complicated.
Behind this war of words is the ongoing fighting in Ukraine. Recent reports show that the conflict continues, with Russian forces attacking Ukrainian cities and making advances in the northeastern Sumy region. Ukraine and its allies keep demanding an immediate ceasefire, while the Russian government seems unwilling to negotiate unless certain demands are met.
Regarding Trump's words about Putin "playing with fire" and "really bad things" happening to Russia. I only know of one REALLY BAD thing — WWIII.
— Dmitry Medvedev (@MedvedevRussiaE) May 27, 2025
I hope Trump understands this!
Even though there have been statements suggesting a willingness to talk, the conflict has not calmed down. Reports describe ongoing artillery fire, drone strikes, and military movements. Russia recently held large naval exercises in the Baltic Sea involving many ships, planes, and troops, showing it is prepared for military action. At the same time, Ukraine says it has successfully shot down Russian drones, demonstrating its continued effort to defend itself. This doesn’t sound like a Putin that needs Trump’s approval.
The Russian government dismissed Trump’s comments as coming from “emotional overload,” making the already difficult relationship even more strained. While Putin has said in the past that he is open to discussions about a possible peace agreement and ceasefire, no real steps toward reducing tensions have been taken. The continued fighting and harsh words suggest that diplomatic efforts are stuck while tensions keep rising.
The long-term effects of this renewed hostility are unclear, adding more uncertainty to an already unstable global situation. Putin may be afraid of what may happen if he loses. The direct warning of a worldwide war, though extreme, is a strong reminder of what could happen if aggressive words and military actions keep escalating in the current conflict.
