Putin: 'The risk of World War 3 is increasing'

Regarding the possibility of improving relations with the United States following the inauguration of former U.S. President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin said, "It is in Russia's interests to improve relations with the United States."
In an interview with Russian state television on the 22nd (local time), President Putin said, "We will continue to strengthen our relations with the United States as long as it does not harm Russia's interests.
"If we build relations with someone, it will only be possible if it is based on Russia's interests," Putin said. "If there is a will,
"Everything is possible. We have never lost that will," he said. "Improving relations is not our problem, it's their problem," he said, referring to the West's
In response to the question, "Does the current situation in Ukraine, which has created conflict between Russia and the West, amount to a Third World War?", he said, "I don't think it's something that should be done to anyone."
"There is no need to threaten," he said, but added, "There are many dangers, and they are increasing." Putin added, "They (the Western countries) are escalating the situation.
"If that's what they want, they can do so," he said. "We will always respond to any challenge."