'Disturbing': Putin on World War III risk; flags concern over Israel-Iran conflict

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday said he was worried when asked whether he feared the world was moving towards a potential World War III, reported news agency Reuters.

Speaking at an economic forum in St. Petersburg, Putin noted that global conflict risks were increasing.

He pointed to Russia’s own war in Ukraine and the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran. Putin also raised concerns about developments around nuclear facilities in Iran, where Russian specialists are currently constructing two new nuclear reactors for Tehran.


"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," said Putin.

He added, "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."

Putin also said that Russia plans to expand military and technical cooperation with "friendly countries" by jointly producing weapons and training military personnel.

The Russian President said Moscow aimed to modernise its own armed forces by equipping them with the latest weapons and technology.


"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 said.

Putin emphasised that Russia’s cooperation with friendly nations would go beyond arms supplies or equipment upgrades.

"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, according to Reuters.

On the economic front, Putin said Russia planned to strengthen trade ties with its partners by removing barriers, opening new market opportunities, and deepening investment cooperation.

Putin has already offered to mediate between Iran and Israel amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. He claimed that Moscow’s longstanding ties with both countries make it uniquely positioned to help broker peace.

“We are not imposing anything on anyone; we are simply talking about how we see a possible way out of the situation,” he said.

“But the decision, of course, is up to the political leadership of all these countries, primarily Iran and Israel.” Putin acknowledged the complexity of the crisis, saying “it’s a delicate issue,” but said that a solution to the conflict is possible.

“In my view, a solution could be found," the Russian president said. His comments come at a time of growing concern that Israeli strikes on Iranian targets and the potential for a wider war could draw in other regional and global powers.