Putin calls Trump's "paper tiger" comment uninformed, asserts Russia's strength and advances in Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin sharply rejected former U.S. President Donald Trump’s description of Russia as a "paper tiger," calling the assessment uninformed and emphasizing Russia’s military strength and resolve. Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Group, Putin asserted ongoing advances in Ukraine, control over key regions, and Russia’s readiness to respond to any provocation, including NATO actions. He dismissed Western support for Ukraine as a threat, criticized NATO’s role, and questioned its resolve, while expressing cautious openness to peace efforts led by non-Western nations. No new military or diplomatic developments were announced.