In a clear sign that the Kremlin fears a plot to kill Putin could be under way, the House Speaker of Russia's Parliament issued a stark warning to any would-be assassins.

Volodin said merely discussing a plot to assassinate Putin was path to nuclear war and that Carlson's comments should be investigated further. State news agency Tass reported that Russia's parliament will appeal to U.S. Congress and the U.N. to investigate the claims.

In the past, the Russian president said that any peace deal should respect the “realities on the ground”, hinting that Moscow wants to keep all the territories it currently occupies in Ukraine.

In an interview with Russian state television, Vladimir Putin declared his willingness to negotiate peace with Ukraine. However, the Russian head of state rejected direct talks with Volodymyr Zelenskyi.