Kyiv [Ukraine], November 22 (HBTV): Ukraine's former military Commander-in-Chief Valery Zaluzhny declared that the Third World War has already begun, citing the direct involvement of North Korean soldiers and Iranian 'Shahedis' in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. According to a Politico report, Zaluzhny made the remarks during Ukrainska Pravda's UP100 award ceremony on Thursday.

"I believe that in 2024, we can absolutely say that the Third World War has begun," said Zaluzhny, who now serves as Ukraine's envoy to the United Kingdom. "Ukraine is no longer facing Russia alone. Soldiers from North Korea are standing in front of Ukraine, and Iranian 'Shahedis' are openly killing civilians without shame. North Korean and Chinese weapons are flying into Ukraine."

Zaluzhny emphasized that Ukraine's allies have the capability to stop the war but must act decisively. "It is still possible to stop it here, on the territory of Ukraine. But for some reason, our partners do not want to understand this. Ukraine already has too many enemies. Ukraine will survive with technology, but it is unclear whether it can win this battle alone," he added.

The grim comments reflect Zaluzhny's long-held views on the Russia-Ukraine war, which he previously compared to a World War I-style stalemate. His criticism of the conflict's management led to friction with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, culminating in Zaluzhny's dismissal in February. The decision, reportedly influenced by growing tensions and concerns over Zaluzhny's rising popularity, marked a major shift in Ukraine's military leadership.

Oleksandr Syrskyi replaced Zaluzhny as the head of Ukraine's armed forces, signaling a new direction in the country's approach to its ongoing war with Russia.   

(ANI)