"Regardless of which scenario will unfold on a global level in the coming years, the continuation of international conflicts is, unfortunately, extremely likely. This is partly due to the fact that ongoing fundamental changes —and the opportunities they present— fuel ambitions and the willingness to take risks for the sake of seemingly massive profit." Russian President Vladimir Putin said today that international conflicts are very likely to continue as the world changes, but the situation will improve as, he said, Western hegemony wanes. (translated)