Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko has issued a stark warning: if former President Donald Trump takes steps that Russia views as an escalation, it could lead to “a world war.” Melnichenko made this statement after being sanctioned by the West due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
As Trump talks about returning to the presidency, speculation around potential negotiations to end the war is growing. Recently, President Vladimir Putin expressed a willingness to discuss peace with Trump, but he dismissed any agreements involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as invalid due to Zelensky’s declaration of martial law.
Zelensky, in an interview, expressed his readiness to negotiate with Putin, but the Kremlin quickly labeled his statements as “empty words.” These tensions illustrate the complex political landscape surrounding the conflict.
Melnichenko, who co-founded major businesses and has an estimated worth of $25 billion, has been affected by sanctions. The EU regards him as part of Putin’s inner circle, yet he claims to have no direct ties to the invasion or political agendas. His recent comments emphasize the uncertainty regarding how Putin might react to Trump’s actions.
During an interview, Melnichenko suggested that if Trump escalates tensions, it could lead to dire consequences. He stated, “If the escalation continues under [Donald] Trump… it will lead to a world war.”
Retired General Keith Kellogg, who served as Trump’s special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, noted that the former president could dramatically increase U.S. sanctions against Russia. Currently, he rated the enforcement of sanctions at only a “3 out of 10,” indicating there’s significant room for escalation.
Zelensky has shown a willingness to negotiate with Trump, suggesting a deal for continued U.S. military aid in exchange for access to Ukraine’s valuable rare earth materials. This highlights a potential shift in priorities as both leaders seek to support their respective nations during this ongoing conflict.
Melnichenko believes that if tensions do not escalate further, the war could end this year. However, he cautioned that a formal peace agreement might not materialize before Ukraine holds new presidential elections. He also described the war as a tragedy for both Russia and Ukraine, emphasizing that a resolution will require rebuilding relationships and finding Ukraine’s role in a post-war world.
As the situation unfolds, the world watches closely, aware of the fragile balance of power and the potential consequences of escalating tensions.
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Russia-Ukraine War,Donald Trump,Vladimir Putin,Volodymyr Zelensky,War,U.S. Foreign Policy,U.S. Politics,Dmitry Peskov
