World Superpowers Release Rare Joint Statement Vowing That Nuclear War 'Must Never Be Fought'

The world's superpowers have released a rare joint statement, saying that a nuclear war 'must never be fought'.

While the threat of armageddon always seems to be on the horizon when tensions rise between rivals states, leaders have now come together on the matter.

In a statement released yesterday (3 January), leaders from China, the UK, the US, Russia and France said that nuclear was to be avoided at all costs and 'the reduction of strategic risks' was among their top priorities.

The English language version released by the White House reads: "We affirm that a nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought. 

"As nuclear use would have far-reaching consequences, we also affirm that nuclear weapons - for as long as they continue to exist - should serve defensive purposes, deter aggression, and prevent war."

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It goes on to discuss the need to curtail the use of nuclear weapons across the globe.

"We believe strongly that the further spread of such weapons must be prevented," it says.

"We reaffirm the importance of addressing nuclear threats and emphasize the importance of preserving and complying with our bilateral and multilateral non-proliferation, disarmament, and arms control agreements and commitments. 

"We remain committed to our Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) obligations, including our Article VI obligation 'to pursue negotiations in good faith on effective measures relating to cessation of the nuclear arms race at an early date and to nuclear disarmament, and on a treaty on general and complete disarmament under strict and effective international control'.

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"We each intend to maintain and further strengthen our national measures to prevent unauthorized or unintended use of nuclear weapons. We reiterate the validity of our previous statements on de-targeting, reaffirming that none of our nuclear weapons are targeted at each other or at any other State. 

"We underline our desire to work with all states to create a security environment more conducive to progress on disarmament with the ultimate goal of a world without nuclear weapons with undiminished security for all. 

"We intend to continue seeking bilateral and multilateral diplomatic approaches to avoid military confrontations, strengthen stability and predictability, increase mutual understanding and confidence, and prevent an arms race that would benefit none and endanger all." 

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The statement concluded: "We are resolved to pursue constructive dialogue with mutual respect and acknowledgment of each other’s security interests and concerns."

This announcement comes amid fears - not for the first time - that Russia is readying itself to invade Ukraine.

The threat is causing great concern among Western leaders, but evidently not enough for Ukraine's social media admin to lose their sense of humour.

The country's Twitter account shared a meme illustrating varying types of headaches, with red patches highlighting the areas affected by migraines, hypertension and stress.

And then there is a head which is entirely red, captioned: "Living next to Russia."