'World War III has begun:' Ukraine’s former top general

Ukraine's former Commander-in-Chief, Valery Zaluzhny, has warned that the war in Ukraine has become a full-scale global conflict, claiming that “World War III has begun.”

He cited the presence of North Korean soldiers and Iranian and Chinese weaponry on Ukrainian territory as proof that the war now involves more than just Russia.

Zaluzhny, who currently serves as Ukraine’s envoy to the United Kingdom, made the statement at Ukrainska Pravda’s UP100 award ceremony.

"Because in 2024, Ukraine is no longer facing Russia. Soldiers from North Korea are standing in front of Ukraine. Let's be honest. Already in Ukraine, the Iranian 'Shahedis' are killing civilians absolutely openly, without any shame," said Zaluzhny, adding that North Korean and Chinese weapons are flying into Ukraine.

The former general appealed to Ukraine’s allies, saying the conflict could still be contained within Ukraine’s borders, but only if partners increase support. “Ukraine will survive with technology, but it’s uncertain if we can win this alone,” he stated.

Zaluzhny’s remarks align with his previously expressed concerns, echoed in a controversial essay last year comparing the conflict to a World War I-style stalemate.

His criticisms of the war’s management led to tension with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who dismissed him in February, citing policy disagreements and the general’s rising popularity. General Oleksandr Syrskyi, who replaced Zaluzhny, is seen as having closer ties to the president.

Zaluzhny initially gained acclaim for halting Russia’s early invasion efforts in 2022. However, setbacks in Ukraine’s counteroffensive in 2023 dampened the former commander’s reputation, adding to the rift with Zelenskyy.

Zaluzhny's comments come as the Ukrainian military continues to benefit from advanced Western missile systems, including supplies from the US and UK, which have allowed Ukraine to reach deep into Russian territory.

This capability has reportedly provoked Russian President Vladimir Putin to threaten nuclear escalation.

In response to Ukraine’s new strike capabilities, President Putin announced the development of an intermediate-range missile, the Oreshnik, which he claims can bypass air defenses and target allies of Ukraine.

Putin’s warnings reflect Moscow’s concerns over Western assistance to Kyiv and signify the Kremlin's efforts to restore a sense of military deterrence.

Ukrainian General Zaluzhny’s strategy remains pivotal as he pushes Western allies for a reevaluation of their approaches. He expressed hope for shifts in US foreign policy, suggesting that Donald Trump’s possible return to office could influence America’s support for Ukraine.