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n a stern message to the West, Russian President Vladimir Putin cautioned on Monday, March 18, 2024, that direct conflict between Russia and the U.S.-led NATO military alliance would dangerously escalate global tensions, bringing the planet perilously close to World War Three. While underscoring the gravity of the situation, Putin emphasized that few desire such a catastrophic scenario.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has precipitated the most profound crisis in Moscow’s relations with the West since the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962. Despite recurrent warnings of the risks of nuclear confrontation, Putin reiterated that he has never contemplated employing nuclear weapons in Ukraine.
French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent remarks regarding the potential deployment of ground troops in Ukraine have underscored the gravity of the situation. While some Western nations have distanced themselves from such a proposition, others, particularly in Eastern Europe, have signaled support.
Responding to questions regarding Macron’s remarks and the potential for conflict between Russia and NATO, Putin remarked, “everything is possible in the modern world.” He stressed the gravity of the situation, cautioning that any such conflict would bring the world to the brink of a catastrophic global war, a scenario of grave concern to all parties involved.
Putin also highlighted the presence of NATO military personnel in Ukraine, noting that Russian forces have intercepted communications in English and French on the battlefield. He expressed concern for the personnel involved, citing their significant casualties.
Regarding the escalating situation on the ground, Putin suggested that continued attacks by Ukraine may prompt Russia to establish a buffer zone using Ukrainian territory to safeguard its borders. However, he refrained from divulging specific details, emphasizing the need to prevent the influx of foreign armaments into Russian territory.
Putin’s comments come against the backdrop of a full-scale invasion of Ukraine initiated by Russia in February 2022, culminating in a major European conflict. Despite the ongoing hostilities, Putin reiterated his commitment to peace talks, urging international efforts to seek a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Ukraine.
In addressing criticisms of Russia’s recent elections, which the U.S. deemed neither free nor fair, Putin rebuffed Western accusations, asserting that U.S. elections themselves lack democratic integrity. He also criticized the U.S. for employing state power against former President Donald Trump, characterizing the situation as a “catastrophe.”
When questioned about the fate of opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who died under unexplained circumstances in a Russian prison in February, Putin confirmed that a prisoner exchange deal had been agreed upon before Navalny’s death. He reiterated his approval for the exchange, with the condition that Navalny not return to Russia.
Putin’s remarks underscore the gravity of the situation in Ukraine and the broader geopolitical tensions between Russia and the West, highlighting the urgent need for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the crisis and prevent further destabilization in the region.
Source: Reuters
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