St. Petersburg: In a stark and somber statement, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed serious concern that the world could be drifting toward a third world war. Speaking at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin candidly acknowledged his worries when asked whether he believed global tensions were escalating beyond control.
“I am worried sincerely and without irony,” Putin remarked, underlining the seriousness of his concerns. He pointed to a growing "conflict potential" in various parts of the world, warning that these threats are no longer distant but are occurring “right under our noses.” The Russian leader emphasized that the deterioration of international relations, combined with increasing regional hostilities, poses a real danger to global peace and stability.
One of Putin’s key concerns centers on Iran’s nuclear facilities, where Russian experts are reportedly stationed. With Israel’s recent threats and escalations in the Middle East, Putin warned that any direct attack on such sensitive infrastructure could have devastating consequences. He urged restraint and a return to diplomacy, calling for “peaceful and balanced solutions” to defuse international crises.
The Kremlin echoed Putin’s sentiment, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov warning that the Middle East is “plunging into an abyss of instability and war.” Russia has maintained active communication lines with Iran, Israel, and the United States, positioning itself as a potential mediator in the ongoing regional disputes. Moscow's renewed push for dialogue highlights its interest in preventing further escalation and asserting itself as a stabilizing force on the global stage.
Putin’s comments come at a time when multiple geopolitical flashpoints—from the prolonged Ukraine conflict to fresh military tensions in the Middle East—are fanning fears of a broader, more destructive conflict. His remarks serve as a sobering reminder of how rapidly the world’s security architecture is eroding and how vital it is for global powers to act with caution and responsibility.