Putin Warns of World War III Risk at Forum

Russian President Vladimir Putin warned of a growing risk of World War III, citing escalating conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, especially tensions between Israel and Iran and instability near Iran's nuclear facilities. At the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin called for peaceful solutions and criticized Western dominance and NATO expansion, predicting BRICS nations would rise in influence. He reiterated Russia's commitment to modernizing its military and strengthening cooperation with allied countries. Putin stated that Russia had submitted proposals for resolving the Iran-Israel crisis to key leaders and warned against regime change in Iran, which he said would destabilize the region. While maintaining that Russians and Ukrainians are 'one people,' Putin denied questioning Ukraine's sovereignty and warned of catastrophic consequences if Ukraine used a 'dirty bomb.' Kremlin officials also cautioned against destabilizing actions in the region.