Russian President Vladimir Putin is on the war path – again. The always-hyperbolic leader of an increasingly isolated Russia dramatically stoked fears of a wider global conflict after boarding a high-tech Russian warship to oversee a menacing live-fire naval demonstration.

And while there, he found time to make claims about the legacy of the Soviet Union as a pretext for Moscow’s growing military aggression.

Clad in a dark naval uniform bearing the Russian flag, the Kremlin leader marched through the tight steel corridors of the vessel before taking his position on the ship’s bridge alongside top admirals and military commanders.

During a high-level briefing held at inside the ship’s command centre, Putin listened intently as officers outlined strategic maritime operations before launching into a tirade against Western allies.

And then he claimed that “the region is unfortunately becoming increasingly prone to conflict, with NATO seeking to gain a foothold here and the emergence of new military and political blocs”.

Turning his attention to Japan, he referenced post-WW2 history, stating: “Let me remind you that in the mid-1950s, the Soviet Union signed a declaration with Japan that paved the way for a peace treaty”.

He added that after Japan withdrew from the declaration, “the Soviet Union did the same, but the new Russia responded to the Japanese government’s request and renewed” dialogue.

Standing alongside senior naval officials, Putin inspected tactical maps and monitored computer systems on the bridge while looking out over open seas.

Moments later, the Russian dictator personally observed high-precision missiles being unleashed from the ship’s deck – although it’s not clear if he pushed the big red button to fire the missles.

Read More: Putin ramps up WW3 fears as he makes ‘Soviet Union’ claim before firing missiles