World

In yet another indication that governments of the world are preparing for a coming nuclear war with Russia, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued instructions as to which medications nations must stockpile to deal with "nuclear emergency."

The global health body issued guidance on how to survive a nuclear catastrophe in a new report today, warning against 'intentional uses of radioactive materials with malicious intent'.

The report was published as the spectre of nuclear war looms over the world after the West supplied state-of-the-art tanks to Ukraine to the fury of Vladimir Putin.

The Kremlin accused NATO of a 'blatant provocation' and threatened a 'global catastrophe' in response to the deal.

Today, Stefano Sannino, secretary general of the European Union's European External Action Service, said Putin had 'moved from a concept of special operation to a concept now of a war against NATO and the West'.

He went on to claim the EU is not looking to escalate hostilities but is 'just giving the possibility of saving lives and allowing the Ukrainians to defend (themselves) from these barbaric attacks.

Dr Maria Neira, WHO Acting Assistant Director-General warned that many governments today are not prepared for a nuclear or radiation disaster.

She said: 'In radiation emergencies, people may be exposed to radiation at doses ranging from negligible to life-threatening. Governments need to make treatments available for those in need – fast. 

'It is essential that governments are prepared to protect the health of populations and respond immediately to emergencies. This includes having ready supplies of lifesaving medicines that will reduce risks and treat injuries from radiation.'

WHO outlines that a national stockpile normally includes PPE, trauma kits, fluids, antibiotics and painkillers. 

But the health body said: 'Many countries, however, still lack the essential elements of preparedness for radiation emergencies.'

Meanwhile, the Kremlin said today the US holds the key to ending the war in Ukraine but refuses to use it.

Spokesman Dmitry Peskov accused Joe Biden of 'pumping weapons into Ukraine' when he could instead be instigating a ceasefire.