Ukraine's Conflict with Russia Escalates: Zaluzhny Says Third World War Has Started

Speaking at the UP100 award ceremony in Kyiv, Zaluzhny declared, "I believe that in 2024 we can absolutely believe that the Third World War has begun." The general highlighted the growing involvement of countries like North Korea, Iran, and China, stating that Ukraine is no longer merely facing Russia, but rather, "soldiers from North Korea are standing in front of Ukraine." Zaluzhny’s comments underscore the increasingly international dimensions of the war, signaling that Ukraine is confronting a broader coalition led by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Germany Criticizes Ukraine’s Use of US-Supplied Anti-Personnel Landmines

In a separate development, the German government has expressed its disapproval of Ukraine’s recent decision to deploy anti-personnel landmines supplied by the United States. The decision has sparked controversy as these weapons are banned under the 1997 Ottawa Convention, which Ukraine is a signatory to. The White House announced this week that it would send these controversial landmines to aid Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, prompting criticism from various quarters, including human rights organizations and foreign governments.

Speaking on the issue, German Foreign Ministry spokesman Christian Wagner expressed regret over Ukraine’s decision. Initially, Wagner deflected the question, noting Russia’s extensive use of landmines in the conflict. However, when reminded that Russia is not bound by the Ottawa Treaty but Ukraine is, Wagner stated, "It is also regrettable that Ukraine feels compelled to take such a step."

The decision has sparked considerable backlash from international groups. More than 160 countries are signatories to the Ottawa Treaty, which bans the use, production, and transfer of anti-personnel landmines. Human rights organizations, such as Amnesty International and the Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC), have condemned the move, citing the extreme risks posed by these devices to civilians long after the conflict ends.

The controversy is compounded by the fact that this is not the first time the Biden administration has provided Ukraine with weapons banned under international law. In 2023, the US sent cluster munitions to Ukraine, which are also banned by the 2008 UN Convention on Cluster Munitions. The use of such weapons has drawn criticism from several NATO and non-NATO countries, further complicating the international community’s stance on the Ukraine conflict.

While Germany remains committed to the Ottawa Convention, its disapproval of Ukraine’s landmine usage is likely to strain relations within the Western alliance, highlighting the challenges faced by countries like Ukraine as they navigate military support and international legal obligations in the face of an aggressive Russian invasion.