March 3, 2026 | SUNTV Global Channel
Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has issued a stark warning that policies pursued by U.S. President Donald Trump toward Iran could spark a global conflict, cautioning that continued “regime change” efforts may push the world to the brink of World War III.
Speaking in an interview published by Russian state news agency TASS and reported by RT, Medvedev — who currently serves as Deputy Chairman of Russia’s Security Council — said that while a third world war has not officially begun, current geopolitical tensions are dangerously volatile.
“Technically, no,” Medvedev responded when asked if the world is already in a global war. “But if this course of criminal regime change continues, it could undoubtedly begin. Any event could be the trigger.”
His remarks come amid intensifying military operations in the Middle East, where U.S. and allied forces have reportedly targeted Iranian leadership and key strategic assets. The developments have fueled widespread concern about a broader regional escalation.
Medvedev accused Washington and its allies of pursuing a wider geopolitical agenda under the guise of limited military strikes, alleging that such actions are designed to preserve American global dominance.
He also described the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei as a “grave mistake,” warning that it could inflame tensions further and radicalize millions across the Shiite Muslim world.
According to Medvedev, rather than weakening Tehran, the strike could strengthen internal unity and accelerate Iran’s strategic ambitions. He claimed that heightened military pressure might push the Islamic Republic to intensify efforts toward nuclear capability.
Despite the loss of top leadership, Medvedev expressed confidence that Iran would endure, arguing that external threats often consolidate domestic support. “It requires a high degree of social consolidation — and such actions may provide that,” he stated.
When questioned about whether Russia could face similar surprise attacks during diplomatic engagements, Medvedev pointed to Moscow’s nuclear deterrence as a protective shield, asserting that the United States understands the catastrophic cost of direct confrontation with Russia.
The comments come at a time of heightened global instability, with ongoing tensions across Eastern Europe and the Middle East raising fears of great-power confrontation.
As diplomatic channels strain and military rhetoric intensifies, international observers warn that further escalation could have unpredictable consequences for global peace and security.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments across the Middle East and beyond.
