Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed serious concern about the risk of a global conflict, including the possibility of a third world war. When asked at the St. Petersburg Economic Forum whether the world was heading towards another world war, Putin responded with alarm, according to a report by Reuters.
“It is disturbing. I am speaking without any irony, without any jokes. Of course, there is a lot of conflict potential, it is growing, and it is right under our noses, and it affects us directly,” he said.
Cites Ukraine, Iran-Israel tensions, nuclear risks
Putin pointed to ongoing flashpoints like Russia’s own war in Ukraine and the deepening tensions between Israel and Iran. He also mentioned growing concerns surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme, especially as Russian experts are helping build two nuclear reactors in the country.
Stressing the need for dialogue, Putin said it was crucial to find peaceful resolutions to prevent further escalation. “And this requires, of course, not only our careful attention to the events taking place, but also the search for solutions, the search for solutions, preferably by peaceful means, in all directions,” he said.
Offers to mediate between Iran and Israel
Amid fears of a broader conflict in the Middle East, Putin reiterated his offer to mediate between Iran and Israel, highlighting Russia’s longstanding diplomatic ties with both countries.
“We are not imposing anything on anyone; we are simply talking about how we see a possible way out of the situation,” he said.
Putin admitted that the situation in the Middle East was highly sensitive but insisted that a resolution is possible. “But the decision, of course, is up to the political leadership of all these countries, primarily Iran and Israel,” he said. “It’s a delicate issue,” Putin acknowledged, “In my view, a solution could be found.”
Putin’s remarks come amid growing global fears that continued Israeli strikes on Iranian targets could spark a wider war, one that risks drawing in both regional powers and global actors like Russia and the United States.
Russia to boost military modernisation
Despite his call for peace, Putin outlined plans to strengthen Russia’s armed forces with advanced technologies.
“We will harness new technology to improve the combat capabilities of the Russian armed forces, modernise military infrastructure facilities, (and) equip them with the latest technology and weapons and equipment,” he stated.
Putin also announced Russia’s intention to deepen military and technical cooperation with allied nations.
“At the same time, we intend to develop military-technical co-operation with friendly countries. And we are talking not only about supplies or the modernisation of equipment and weapons, but also about joint development, personnel training, and the creation of turn-key enterprises and production facilities,” he said.
On the economic front, Putin said Russia plans to deepen trade and investment relations with partner nations. This would include removing trade barriers and opening up new markets for collaboration.
While Putin urged diplomacy and peaceful negotiation, his simultaneous push to modernise Russia’s military and strengthen alliances indicates Moscow’s intent to safeguard its interests amid rising instability worldwide.