Many in US and western Europe think third world war likely within five to 10 years
GuardianMAY 9
Poll: Many in US, Europe Expect World War Within Decade
Above: Soldiers from the Lithuanian army guard a command post during the "Allied Spirit 25" U.S. military and NATO training exercise at the U.S. Army's Hohenfels training area in Hohenfels, Germany, on March 12, 2025. Image copyright: Alex Kraus/Contributor/Bloomberg via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
With rival superpowers rearming, proxy wars expanding, and nuclear threats now part of everyday rhetoric, it's hard to believe World War III won't happen. The world is fractured between democratic and authoritarian blocs, with flashpoints in Taiwan, Ukraine, and the Middle East. History shows war is not an anomaly but a pattern we repeat. Unfortunately, international conflict remains an inevitable destiny.
Narrative B
World War III isn't inevitable. Despite rising global tensions, today's powers face economic strains, mutual deterrence, and interconnected markets, making a full-scale global war far less likely. History may rhyme, but it doesn't repeat, and panic online often distorts reality more than it reflects it. While the world must stay vigilant amid uncertain times, alarmism will likely only help manifest the destiny we wish to avoid.