U.S. President Donald Trump has criticized Russia for its ongoing war in Ukraine, describing the country as financially strained despite its efforts to sustain the conflict. Speaking recently, Trump said that while Russia appears formidable, it has effectively become a “paper tiger,” struggling with the high costs of war and difficulties in funding its operations through oil sales. He suggested that Moscow’s financial position has been weakened by the prolonged conflict.
Russia responded strongly to Trump’s remarks, rejecting the “paper tiger” analogy. Kremlin officials clarified that Russia identifies more with a bear than a tiger, and there is no concept of a “paper bear.” Moscow stressed that there is no reason for concern regarding its economic stability, asserting that the country remains financially robust despite the ongoing conflict.
Russia is not a "paper tiger," it is closer to a bear while "paper bears" do not exist, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in an interview with RBC:https://t.co/L4Bjz4Ql8f pic.twitter.com/zRKKLluhLo
— TASS (@tassagency_en) September 24, 2025
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov further highlighted that Russian forces in Ukraine are performing effectively and strategically. He warned that the military should not be underestimated, noting that operations are being conducted according to carefully planned maneuvers. Peskov emphasized that Russia is advancing cautiously and methodically to minimize losses, regardless of how long the war continues.
‼️🇷🇺🇺🇸 US President Trump has just publicly threatened the Russian Federation.
Calling Russia and Putin a "Paper tiger" and how he will continue to supply weapons to NATO, not only to get Ukraine back but to invade Russia.
Let me explain how deluded he is.
🧵1/10 pic.twitter.com/sReAqD9awQ
— Spetsnaℤ 007 🇷🇺 (@Alex_Oloyede2) September 23, 2025