On September 19, 2026, Russia's former President Dmitry Medvedev stated that Russia's response to new US sanctions should include military deterrence. Medvedev, a close ally of current President Vladimir Putin, made the remarks on Telegram. He is also the current Deputy Chairman of Russia's Security Council. Medvedev did not elaborate on the specifics of the military response. His comments come amid heightened tensions between Russia and the West.
The US sanctions were imposed on September 18, 2026, after US President Donald Trump signed a law aimed at increasing pressure on Russia due to its ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The legislation, named after late US Senator Lindsey Graham, targets Russia's energy and defense sectors, as well as high-ranking officials, including President Putin. The law had been delayed for months in Congress. The new sanctions have further strained relations between the US and Russia.
Medvedev, who served as President of Russia from 2008 to 2012, believes that the US only understands the language of direct military deterrence. He thinks that Russia should respond to what he termed "anti-Russian atrocities" with this approach. Medvedev's statement reflects his hawkish stance on relations with the West. His views often align with those of President Putin.
The new US law aims to punish Russia for its actions in Ukraine and other perceived hostile activities. The US Congress had been working on the legislation for months before its passage. Russia has faced increasing international criticism for its actions in Ukraine. The conflict has led to significant economic and diplomatic costs for Russia.
Medvedev's Telegram post specifically mentioned the late Senator Lindsey Graham, who was a strong supporter of sanctions against Russia. Medvedev called the law "anti-Russian" and likened it to a terrorist act. His comments reflect the increasingly tense relations between Russia and the US.
The Russian government has repeatedly criticized US sanctions, calling them unjustified and economically damaging. Russia has retaliated against previous sanctions with its own measures, including expelling diplomats and restricting imports. The situation remains volatile, with little sign of easing in the near future.
The international community remains concerned about the conflict in Ukraine and its broader implications for European security. Russia's military actions in the region have led to significant instability and humanitarian costs. The situation continues to be a major point of contention between Russia and the West.
Key points
- Russia's former President Dmitry Medvedev has called for a military response to new US sanctions.
- The US sanctions target Russia's energy and defense sectors, as well as high-ranking officials.
- Medvedev believes that the US only understands the language of direct military deterrence.
