World War III is not that far, cautions Vladimir Putin amid predicted fifth term win

MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a warning following the exit poll results, suggesting he would secure a fifth presidential term. Putin hinted at the potential for a direct conflict between the Russian military and the NATO alliance, cautioning that such a scenario could escalate into World War III. However, he emphasized that no one desires such an outcome.

French President Emmanuel Macron stated that there were no plans to deploy French troops in Ukraine, prompting Putin's response. Putin reiterated his concerns about NATO's proximity to conflict with the Russian military, highlighting the presence of US-led NATO troops in Ukraine, some of whom have been identified as English and French speakers. He also mentioned casualties among these troops.

Since February 2022, Russia initiated an invasion of neighboring Ukraine after eight years of ongoing conflict, with tensions remaining high. Against this backdrop, Putin's warning coincides with the conclusion of the three-day presidential election in Russia, where 71-year-old President Vladimir Putin is anticipated to secure another term. The official results are expected to be announced today.

Simultaneously, nationwide protests on the final day of polling led to the arrest of 74 individuals across 17 cities. These demonstrations, organized by supporters of deceased opposition leader Alexei Navalny, were spurred by his recent death in prison. Navalny's wife, Yulia, mobilized supporters through social media under the banner 'Noon Against Putin,' calling for a rally against the Russian president.