In an interview with RBC on September 24, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov affirmed: "Russia is definitely not a tiger. Russia is often compared to a bear. There are no paper bears and Russia is a real bear.
The statement came just a day after US President Donald Trump suddenly changed his mind, saying Ukraine could reclaim all of its territory from Russia. He had previously suggested that Kiev consider giving up territory to reach peace.
Mr. Trump wrote on the social network Truth Social: "Russia's failure to gain more territory in Ukraine for more than 3 years makes them look like a paper tiger. Russia and Mr. Putin are facing great economic troubles, this is the time for Ukraine to act."
The call came shortly after Trump's meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Responding to the above statement, Mr. Peskov said that Mr. Trump's assessment was affected by the talks with Ukraine. Of course, President Trump heard what Zelensky said. Maybe that is the reason he gave such an assessment, Peskov said.
The Kremlin also affirmed that the Russian economic situation remains stable, the army continues to make progress in Ukraine, despite admitting to being pressured by sanctions and global fluctuations.
Mr. Peskov emphasized that the Russian army is "moving cautiously to minimize losses and preserve attack potential".
Western analysts say the front line has not had a major breakthrough thanks to Ukraine's strong defense capabilities, while both sides have weakened after more than 3 and a half years of conflict.
Despite the US's contrasting assessment, Russia affirmed that it will continue the military campaign in "calculated steps", warning that "those who refuse to negotiate today will face a more unfavorable position tomorrow".
