Medvedev warns of preemptive strikes against the West and asserts: "A real war is being waged against Russia"

Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council, affirmed that his country may resort to "preemptive strikes" against the West if necessary, describing Western policies towards the war in Ukraine as "deceptive and hostile". This came in statements he made to the Russian news agency "TASS" on Thursday, July 17.

Medvedev also described Western statements about the possibility of a Russian attack on Europe as "mere nonsense", considering that Russia should "respond and launch preemptive strikes when necessary". He also believed that "Ukraine's disarmament will save it from the bloody geopolitical games orchestrated by foreign powers".

He added that "the West is waging a real war against Russia", pointing out that Western elites "continue to seek revenge against Russia for their past failures".

Medvedev also revealed that over 210,000 soldiers will join the Russian army by 2025 as part of enhancing the country's defense capabilities.

It is worth noting that Medvedev, who previously served as President of Russia (2008–2012) and Prime Minister (2012–2020), has become one of the prominent Russian voices warning against the West since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine in 2022.

In recent years, Medvedev has been known for his sharp statements, which include direct threats to NATO countries, and harsh criticisms of the United States and the European Union, accusing them of "igniting the war in Ukraine and fueling conflicts against Russia".

According to media reports, including a previous report by Reuters, Medvedev "often calls for the use of maximum force, including preemptive strikes and even nuclear weapons, to defend Russia".