Kremlin Rebuts Trump's Insult: "Russia is a Bear, Not a Paper Tiger"

In response to U.S. President Donald Trump's recent comments calling Russia a "paper tiger," the Kremlin has asserted that Moscow is a powerful nation capable of defending its interests. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized that the military operation in Ukraine will continue until all its objectives are achieved.

Russia: A Bear, Not a Paper Tiger

Speaking to RBC radio, Peskov stated, "Russia is a bear, not a paper tiger. There is no such thing as a paper bear." He added that President Vladimir Putin nonetheless appreciates Trump's efforts to end the war in Ukraine.

Peskov also affirmed that the Russian economy "remains stable" despite ongoing Western sanctions since the conflict's outbreak. While acknowledging some "problems in certain economic sectors," he insisted that Moscow is capable of handling them and ensuring continued economic growth.

Military Operations to Continue

The Kremlin spokesman stressed that Russia has "no alternative but to continue its special military operation" launched in Ukraine in February 2022. He reaffirmed that the initial goals announced by Putin—"to guarantee Russia's interests and protect its future for generations to come"—remain in place.

Regarding the military situation, Peskov claimed that Russian forces are "advancing on all fronts" and that the "course of the war is clear." This statement was a direct refutation of Trump's suggestion that Ukraine might be able to reclaim all its territories currently under Russian control.