Russian Lavrov Warns that World War III Could Be “Imminent”

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Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warns World War III might be “just around the corner” after recent U.S. involvement in Iran’s nuclear conflict.

Key Points

  • Iranian leadership refrains from explicit retaliation vows against the US, though the IRGC warned of “regrettable responses”.
  • Russian Foreign Affairs Minister Abbas Araghchi to meet President Putin following Russia’s condemnation of US strikes on Iran.
  • Russia criticized the US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, citing they violate the UN Charter.
  • Iranian-backed militias condemned US airstrikes but have not claimed retaliatory attacks.
  • The IDF continues to target Iranian missile, drone, and air defense capabilities.
  • US President Trump announced a ceasefire agreement between Iran and Israel, mediated by Qatar.
  • Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov warns World War III “could be just around the corner” after US involvement in Iran.
  • Russia has bolstered defense ties with Iran since the Ukraine conflict, relying on Iranian drones.

Escalating Tensions Threaten Global Stability

The latest US involvement in the Middle East has set alarms ringing all over the world. Following the skirmishes between Israel and Iran, the US took a strategic decision to strike Iranian nuclear facilities. This sequence of actions has led to backlashes, with Russia strongly condemning the US’s decision. Russian military officials, along with Foreign Minister Lavrov, have criticized America’s strategic moves labeling the B-2 bomber attacks on Iranian nuclear sites “irresponsible” violations of international law.

The situation grows more complex as Iran and its regional allies stir, yet refrain from direct retaliatory responses. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) did wave a threatening finger, warning of “regrettable responses.”

Global Powers Realigning Amidst Crisis

The ever-intensifying Russia-Ukraine conflict is another key element in this dangerously broad geopolitical tapestry. Russia has fortified military partnerships with Iran in a bid to brace themselves against worldwide instability aggravated by U.S. interventions. Lavrov as well as President Putin express outright concern including the suggestion to mediate between conflicting Middle Eastern countries. However, interpretations remain muddy as to whether this move is tactical posturing or a genuine call for peace.

“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” – Putin

Among these power games, Israel steps deeper into its strikes against Iranian military targets, while international spectators ponder whether the current ceasefire will hold. Pressure between Iranian moderates and Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei unveils budding internal strife; some factions are openly calling for a peaceful resolution.

A Tumultuous Path Ahead

The burgeoning Middle East conflict might be the harbinger of immense geopolitical shifts. Some analysts see Trump’s actions as a possible strategy to send a robust message to China, signaling the elite move-mastering is far from over. As Lavrov noted, the United States’ role in spreading chaos in both the Middle East and Ukraine could potentially lead to a precarious international restructuring.

“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” – Putin

It remains to be seen whether these powers will indeed inch us towards a global conflict or if diplomacy will avert disaster. One thing is certain, the prominent players seem determined to push their agendas, leaving the rest of the world guessing about the potential geopolitical aftermath

Sources:

https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-special-report-june-22-2025-evening-edition

https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-special-report-june-23-2025-evening-edition

https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/iran-israel-war-these-countries-may-offer-the-safest-refuge-if-world-war-iii-erupts-8745752

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/europe/disturbing-putin-on-world-war-iii-risk-flags-concern-over-israel-iran-conflict/articleshow/121979770.cms

https://www.zerohedge.com/geopolitical/russias-lavrov-says-ww3-could-be-near-after-us-drawn-iran-war