The Kremlin on Wednesday rejected the characterization of Russia as a paper tiger given by U.S. President Donald Trump, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov declaring that Russia is a bear, not a tiger. The Kremlin, which has intensely focused on dialogue despite the acute rhetoric, indicated its willingness to engage in dialogue as Peskov noted that Moscow is dedicated to the peace outline that Trump proposed in Ukraine.
The swap happens at a moment of strain in the U.S.
-Russia relations as Washington remains committed to Ukraine, providing military assistance, whereas Moscow is trying to demonstrate its ability to withstand sanctions. Analysts indicate that the rapid reaction of Russia highlights how sensitive the country is to international perception, as well as its concern in establishing itself as a key participant in any future peace deal.
