The deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council has warned that a third world war could erupt if US President Donald Trump continues what he described as an “insane” policy of regime change.
In an interview with Russian state news agency Tass, Dmitry Medvedev accused Washington and its allies of waging war to maintain global dominance. He cautioned that any further escalation by the United States aimed at toppling foreign governments could trigger a broader global conflict.
“If Trump continues this course of criminally changing political regimes, World War III will undoubtedly begin,” Medvedev said, adding that any incident could serve as the spark for a larger confrontation.
Medvedev argued that the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, would strengthen hardline sentiment in Tehran and increase the likelihood that Iran would intensify efforts to pursue nuclear weapons. He described Trump’s decision to attack Iran as a “grave mistake,” claiming it had placed Americans at greater risk.
He further suggested that Iran, though currently limited in its response, would bide its time. “They know how to wait; they are an ancient civilization,” he said, predicting that Tehran would push ahead “with redoubled energy” in developing nuclear capabilities.
The former Russian president also criticised European governments for backing US and Israeli actions, using harsh language to describe their response.
On the question of Iran’s ability to endure the confrontation, Medvedev said the country could withstand the conflict but warned that the cost would be high. He argued that external pressure had united Iranian society behind its leadership.
Turning to broader geopolitical tensions, Medvedev said there are no guarantees against miscalculation by Western governments, while asserting that Washington understands the devastating consequences of any potential nuclear conflict with Russia.
His remarks come amid intensifying hostilities in the Middle East and renewed global concerns about escalation between major powers.