Russia’s Putin warns of possible global war

MOSCOW

The regional conflicts in the Middle East can transform into a global war, Russia’s President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday.

Addressing Russia's Federal Assembly in Moscow, Putin said there is a need for "a serious talk" about international security and stability, and particularly the five nuclear states have "a responsibility regarding the development of the humankind".

"The regional conflicts can rapidly transform into threats to the international security. [...] There is a serious need for a conversation about the stability and security of the world order. The five nations have to eliminate the reasons that can cause a war," he said.

He stressed that Russia feels secure at present, having the latest weapons that "no other country possesses", but the country has to develop further.

Russia is open to cooperation with all "interested" partners and the country does not threaten anyone, but it will continue to build up its national security, he said.

He also proposed a condition that one should live in the country for at least 25 years to be a presidential candidate.

He stressed the necessity of prohibiting acquiring of foreign citizenship or residence permits for the senior officials.

The president announced that amendments in this regard will be put to a general vote in the near future.

Speaking about birth rate in the country, Putin voiced his concern over the decrease of the population rate and suggested a number of measures aiming to push up the birth rate in the country.

The annual presidential address to the Federal Assembly is an annual event in which Russia's president announces his vision of strategic directions for the country's development in the near future.

It includes both provisions of a political, economic, and ideological nature, as well as specific proposals related to the legislative work of the parliament.