Belgium (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Dmitry Medvedev called Belgian minister Theo Francken an “imbecile” and warned Belgium could be “wiped off the map.” The threat followed Francken’s criticism of Russia’s war in Ukraine, sparking European concern over Moscow’s growing nuclear rhetoric.
Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev has launched a fierce verbal attack on Belgian Defence Minister Theo Francken, calling him an “imbecile” and warning that Belgium could be “wiped off the map” if Russia were to test its nuclear-capable Poseidon system nearby. The comments, made on the social media platform X, have sparked outrage and concern across Europe, as they come amid heightened tensions between Russia and NATO over the war in Ukraine.
Medvedev’s Outburst
In his post, Medvedev responded angrily to recent remarks by Francken that criticized Moscow’s military aggression and its nuclear rhetoric. The former Russian leader wrote that Francken was an “imbecile” and claimed that “if we test Poseidon there, Belgium will be wiped off the map.”
The post was interpreted as a direct nuclear threat against a NATO member state — something rarely seen in modern diplomacy. Belgian media described Medvedev’s tone as “openly menacing,” while European officials expressed alarm over Russia’s increasingly aggressive language.
What Is the Poseidon Weapon?
The Poseidon is one of Russia’s most secretive and terrifying strategic weapons. It is an unmanned, nuclear-powered underwater drone capable of carrying a nuclear warhead across thousands of kilometers. Officially, the system was designed to create massive radioactive tsunamis capable of destroying coastal cities.
Experts have long warned that Poseidon represents a new class of “doomsday” weapon. The fact that Medvedev referenced it in a threat against Belgium was seen by analysts as an attempt to project fear and assert dominance over NATO members that support Ukraine.
Background: Francken’s Comments on Russia
Theo Francken, a senior figure in Belgium’s nationalist N-VA party, has been outspoken in his criticism of Russia since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. As Defence Minister, he has advocated for continued Belgian military support to Kyiv and stronger sanctions against Moscow.
Francken’s recent comments reportedly questioned Russia’s strategic motives and accused the Kremlin of using “nuclear blackmail” to intimidate smaller European states. While his remarks were firm, few expected such a hostile response from Medvedev, who is currently deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council and a close ally of Vladimir Putin.
Diplomatic Fallout
Medvedev’s threat has prompted serious concern within Belgium’s political and defense circles. Though there has been no official statement from Francken or the Belgian Foreign Ministry as of yet, sources in Brussels say that diplomats are discussing possible responses with NATO and EU partners. Belgium, as host to NATO’s headquarters, plays a key logistical role in the alliance’s defense network. Any threat directed at it carries broader implications for collective security.
A senior official from Europe told Belgian media that
“Russia’s statements are reckless and dangerous,” and that Europe “will not be intimidated by nuclear threats.” NATO has so far refrained from issuing a formal comment, but alliance officials have privately condemned the rhetoric as “provocative and irresponsible.”
Russia’s Pattern of Escalation
Medvedev has become known in recent years for his incendiary social media posts. Once seen as a more moderate figure during his presidency (2008–2012), he has since adopted a hardline tone, often echoing the Kremlin’s most extreme positions.
He has repeatedly threatened NATO countries, warning of “nuclear consequences” if Western states continue to arm Ukraine. His remarks are generally viewed as part of Russia’s broader campaign of psychological pressure — aimed at sowing fear and political division within Europe. However, targeting Belgium specifically marks an escalation, given its small size and symbolic role as the diplomatic heart of the European Union and NATO.
Expert Reactions
Military and political experts say Medvedev’s outburst reflects Moscow’s frustration as the war in Ukraine drags on. “These threats are designed to compensate for Russia’s military difficulties on the ground,” said Jan Balliauw, a Belgian foreign affairs analyst. “By invoking weapons like Poseidon, Medvedev wants to remind Europe that Russia still sees itself as a nuclear superpower.”
Others note that his language risks further isolating Russia internationally. “Calling a minister of a NATO country an imbecile and threatening nuclear annihilation crosses every diplomatic line,” said Clara Heijmans, a security researcher at the Clingendael Institute in The Hague. “This kind of talk only strengthens NATO unity.”
Public and Political Response in Belgium
In Belgium, opposition politicians have demanded an official protest note to Moscow. Some have also called for the Russian ambassador to be summoned for clarification.
Citizens reacted with a mix of disbelief and anger on social media, describing Medvedev’s statement as “madness” and “dangerous posturing.” Many urged the government not to bow to intimidation. Although Francken himself has not yet responded publicly, insiders say he stands by his comments about Russia’s conduct in Ukraine and refuses to “be silenced by threats.”
As of Thursday, Belgian officials were consulting with NATO and European partners on the next steps, while analysts warned that the incident underscores the growing volatility of Europe’s security environment amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.
