Russia and China have begun large-scale joint naval drills in the Sea of Japan, just one day after Donald Trump announced the deployment of two U.S. nuclear submarines near Russian territory. The war games, dubbed “Joint Sea-2025,” kicked off Sunday near Vladivostok and will last for three days.
The exercises include anti-submarine operations, air defense, anti-missile drills, and submarine rescue missions, involving four Chinese warships, including the guided-missile destroyers Shaoxing and Urumqi , alongside Russian vessels.
Time to update the doomsday clock
Following President Trump's order to move two US Nuclear Submarines within striking distance of Russia following Dmitry Medvedev's earlier threat towards the United States, Putin threatens nuclear war. pic.twitter.com/8iqAflEqC4
— Matt Tardio (@angertab) August 1, 2025
While the drills were pre-planned, their timing follows escalating rhetoric between Washington and Moscow. Trump’s decision to send submarines came after former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev issued nuclear threats, warning of potential war with the U.S. In response, Trump called Medvedev’s remarks “foolish and inflammatory,” stating:
“Just in case these statements are more than just that… Words can lead to unintended consequences.”
In an interview with Newsmax, Trump added:
“I have sent two nuclear submarines closer to Russia. We always want to be ready.”
Though Trump didn’t clarify if the submarines were nuclear-armed or simply nuclear-powered, the move highlights growing military brinkmanship. China and Russia claim the exercises are aimed at “deepening strategic partnership” amid rising East-West tensions.
