Washington: In a sharp exchange reflecting the heightened tensions over the ongoing Ukraine conflict, the United States has criticized Russia for inflaming fears of a potential World War III. This development follows U.S. President Donald Trump's warning to Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing him of "playing with fire" due to Russia's continued military actions in Ukraine.

President Trump, through a post on his social media platform Truth Social, asserted that severe consequences for Russia had been averted solely because of his interventions. He cautioned that Putin's actions were dangerously provocative.

Responding to Trump's remarks, Dmitry Medvedev, former Russian President and current Deputy Chairman of Russia's Security Council, dismissed the warnings and suggested that such rhetoric could lead to a global conflict. Medvedev stated, "I only know of one REALLY BAD thing — WWIII. I hope Trump understands this!"

U.S. Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia, Keith Kellogg, condemned Medvedev's comments as reckless and inappropriate for a global power. Kellogg emphasized President Trump's efforts to halt the war and highlighted that Russia had yet to deliver a promised ceasefire proposal. He stated, "Stoking fears of WW III is an unfortunate, reckless comment... and unfitting of a world power."

This exchange underscores the escalating diplomatic friction between the U.S. and Russia over the conflict in Ukraine, raising concerns about the potential for broader international ramifications.