Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a warning about the potential consequences of the escalation of the situation in Ukraine by Western countries. He pointed to the nuclear parity between Russia and the USA as a reason for concern. During a press conference in Uzbekistan, where he is on an official visit, Putin emphasized that the entry of NATO troops into Ukraine could lead to conflict in Europe and even a global war.
Putin also expressed his concern about statements suggesting possible attacks deep into Russian territory, cautioning NATO about the consequences of such actions. In response to a hypothetical scenario proposed by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg authorizing Kiev to use Western weapons to strike Russian territory, Putin recalled previous negotiations with Stoltenberg when he was the Prime Minister of Norway. He mentioned reaching agreements with Stoltenberg in the past and expressed surprise at the current situation.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on the other hand, highlighted the importance of global solidarity in addressing ongoing conflicts, particularly in Ukraine. He accused Russia of spreading disinformation to undermine international support for Kiev, particularly ahead of an upcoming peace summit in Switzerland. Zelensky also criticized Russian President Putin for attempting to sabotage peace negotiations and exclude Russia from discussions. Despite these challenges, Zelensky emphasized the need for global solidarity and urged people not to believe lies spread by Russia.
