Lavrov emphasized that the actions of the United States and NATO pose the risk of a direct armed conflict with Russia, which could have catastrophic consequences. The transfer of F-16s to Ukraine was cited as an example of such actions.

Lavrov mentioned that Russia has informed the United States, Britain, and France, as nuclear powers, that it cannot ignore the potential for these aircraft to carry nuclear weapons.

Lavrov also commented on the Kakhovka dam explosion, accusing Ukraine of requesting the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate a crime it allegedly committed. He claimed that Moscow had previously warned the UN Security Council about Ukraine's plans to destroy the dam but received no response, leading to the Ukrainian authorities' belief that they could act with impunity.

Lavrov's comments come amid heightened tensions between Russia and the West over the war in Ukraine. The United States and its allies have provided Ukraine with billions of dollars in military aid, and there have been growing calls for the West to provide Ukraine with more powerful weapons, including fighter jets.

Lavrov's warning is likely to further escalate tensions between Russia and the West. It remains to be seen whether the West will heed Lavrov's warning and refrain from transferring F-16s to Ukraine. (ILKHA)