Third World War will involve nuclear weapons: Russian Foreign Minister
As Russia's invasion of Ukraine entered the seventh day on Wednesday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said that if there is a third World War, it would be destructive and involve nuclear weapons, news agency Reuters reported. Terming the invasion as a "military operation" against Ukraine, Lavrov said that Moscow would face real danger if Kyiv acquired nuclear weapons.
Why does this story matter?
The comments came as Russia's invasion of Ukraine is being termed as the prelude to World War 3. Several countries have imposed severe sanctions on Russia after its President Vladimir Putin announced a "military operation" in Ukraine last week. Notably, tensions escalated between the two countries after the latter wished to join the United States-led international military alliance NATO.
Current situation in Ukraine
On Wednesday, Russia reportedly claimed that its forces captured Kherson, a port in southern Ukraine. Earlier, its forces had tried to capture the second-largest city Kharkiv. However, Ukrainian forces claimed that they repelled the troops and took the city back under control. Meanwhile, Russian troops continue to gather near the Ukrainian capital Kyiv, the city's mayor Vitali Klitschko said in an online post.
Russia ready to hold second round of talks
Meanwhile, Russia has said that it is ready to hold a second round of talks with Ukraine. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, however, said there was contradictory information about the talks, adding that it is unclear whether Ukrainian officials will turn up. A meeting between the two neighbors was held on Monday which failed to produce a breakthrough.
"Just stop bombing": Ukrainian President
On the other hand, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has said that Russia must stop bombing cities in Ukraine before offering to hold talks. "It's necessary to at least stop bombing people, just stop the bombing and then sit down at the negotiating table."
135 killed in Ukraine; 6,000 Russian soldiers dead
At least 136 civilians—including 13 children—have been killed since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began, the United Nations human rights office said. At least 400 other civilians have been injured till Tuesday, the sixth day of the invasion, it added. Meanwhile, Ukraine says 6,000 Russians have been killed in the first six days of the war. Russia has not confirmed the number of casualties.
