If Ukraine joins the U.S.-led NATO, a member of the Russian security council warned Thursday of World War III. The official stated that if Ukraine is admitted to NATO, the battle will "certainly escalate into World War III."

Alexander Venediktov, deputy secretary of Russia's Security Council, told TASS, "Ukraine's request for a fast-track NATO membership is more of a propaganda move." Kyiv is well aware that such a move will inevitably result in World War III."

TAAS quoted Venediktov as, "The NATO members recognize the suicidal nature of this action." He noted that Russia's stance on Ukraine joining NATO has not changed. "The United States sponsorship of Ukraine's membership in NATO or other alliances is unacceptable to us." "The TASS cited the deputy secretary's words.

After Russian President Vladimir Putin proclaimed the annexation of territories taken by Russian forces, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy vowed to expedite Ukraine's membership in NATO.