In a startling statement, Russia’s deputy foreign minister Sergey Ryabkov declared that the relations between Russia and the United States have already entered a stage of “hot conflict”, and accused the U.S. of engaging in a hybrid war with Moscow on various fronts. He also warned that the U.S. was “playing with fire” and risking making “fatal mistakes” by provoking Russia and pushing the world towards nuclear war.

Ryabkov’s remarks came amid rising tensions over Ukraine, where Russia has amassed tens of thousands of troops near its border and threatened to intervene if NATO expands its presence or supplies more weapons to Kiev. The U.S. and its allies have expressed their support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and urged Russia to de-escalate and respect international law.

The deputy foreign minister claimed that the Cold War era was over, and that the current situation was much more dangerous and unpredictable. He said that Russia was not interested in unleashing a nuclear war, but that it would not hesitate to use all means at its disposal to defend its interests and security. He also blamed the U.S. for escalating the nuclear arms race by stationing nuclear weapons in Europe and developing new types of missiles.

Ryabkov’s statement reflects the growing hostility and mistrust between Moscow and Washington, which have been at odds over a range of issues, including human rights, cyberattacks, election interference, Syria, Iran, and North Korea. Despite some attempts to establish dialogue and cooperation on areas of mutual concern, such as arms control and climate change, the two sides have failed to overcome their deep-rooted differences and find common ground.

The prospect of a hot conflict between Russia and the United States is alarming and dangerous for the whole world, as it could have catastrophic consequences for global peace and stability. We need restraint and diplomacy, and need to seek to reduce tensions and avoid miscalculations that could lead to a military confrontation or a nuclear exchange.

The single thing that would probably help the most is if we didn’t have an incompetent and senile old man running the show.