Kremlin Responds to Trump's Criticism
The Kremlin on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, firmly rejected remarks by US President Donald Trump, who had described Russia as a 'paper tiger' in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov countered Trump's assessment, asserting that Russia is a 'real bear' and would continue its 'special military operation' in Ukraine to achieve its stated objectives.
Trump's comments, made on his Truth Social platform and during engagements at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, marked a significant shift in his rhetoric regarding the conflict.
Trump's 'Paper Tiger' Assertion and Ukraine's Prospects
Following a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, Donald Trump posted on Truth Social that Russia's three-and-a-half-year war effort was 'aimless' and made them 'look like a 'paper tiger.'' He further suggested that Ukraine, with the financial backing of the European Union and NATO, was in a position to 'fight and WIN all of Ukraine back in its original form,' and potentially 'even go further than that.'
Trump also highlighted what he perceived as Russia's 'BIG Economic trouble,' citing economic strains and difficulties for ordinary Russians as evidence of Moscow's weakened state. This stance represented a departure from his earlier suggestions that Ukraine might need to make territorial concessions for peace.
Russia's Unwavering Stance on Military Operation
In response, Dmitry Peskov dismissed Trump's 'paper tiger' characterization, stating in a radio interview with Russian broadcaster RBC that 'Russia is a bear, not a tiger' and that 'there are no 'paper bears,' and Russia is a real bear.' Peskov attributed Trump's changed perspective to being influenced by Zelenskyy's account of events during their meeting.
The Kremlin spokesman reiterated that the idea of Ukraine recovering all lost territories was 'mistaken' and that Russia would continue its 'special military operation' to 'ensure our interests and achieve the goals' set by President Vladimir Putin. He emphasized that the operation was being conducted for Russia's long-term security and 'for many generations to come,' declaring that peace negotiations under current conditions were 'off the table' and that Russia had 'no alternative' but to continue.
Economic Stability and Diplomatic Outlook
Addressing Trump's comments on Russia's economic difficulties, Peskov acknowledged that Russia was experiencing 'certain points of tension and problematic points' in various economic sectors due to sanctions and global economic disorder. However, he maintained that 'Russia maintains its resilience, Russia maintains macroeconomic stability.'
Regarding diplomatic relations, Peskov downplayed any significant thaw in US-Russia relations, stating that the results of Trump's outreach efforts were 'close to zero' and the process of rapprochement had become 'very sluggish.' The Kremlin's response underscores its firm resolve to continue its military actions in Ukraine despite international pressure and criticism.
5 Comments
Noir Black
Peskov is right, Russia isn't a 'paper tiger'. They're serious about their interests.
BuggaBoom
The Kremlin maintains its resolve to continue the operation for 'long-term security,' but this approach seems to prolong the conflict indefinitely. A true resolution would require a willingness to engage in serious negotiations, which both sides appear to lack right now.
Loubianka
Ukraine can't win back everything. That's just wishful thinking from Zelenskyy.
Leonardo
Russia is absolutely a paper tiger! Look at their military failures.
Donatello
Economic sanctions haven't crippled Russia. They're resilient, as Peskov said.