New York: Many Americans and Europeans fear that the world may be on the verge of a third world war as global tensions continue to rise. A recent poll by YouGov, conducted across six countries, Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the US, revealed that between 41 and 55 per cent of respondents in each nation believe World War III could erupt within the next five to 10 years.
The war in Gaza between Israel and Hamas, and the devastating war between Russia and Ukraine, have contributed to the growing sense of instability and destruction. The poll was released just days before the 80th anniversary of VE (Victory in Europe) Day which marked the end of hostilities in Europe following the surrender of Nazi Germany on May 8, 1945.
Even an overwhelming majority of Canadians, at 82 per cent, think that the world is a more dangerous place in 2024, according to a separate poll by Ipsos. The YouGov survey revealed that between 68 and 76 per cent of respondents believe that World War III will likely involve nuclear weapons. This fear is compounded by the continued nuclear threats from countries like North Korea and Russia.
Between 72 and 82 per cent of Europeans see Russia as a major or moderate threat to peace in Europe. In the US, 69 per cent of Americans share this view, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The YouGov poll found that majorities in Spain (58 per cent), Germany (55 per cent), and France (53 per cent) view the current US-Europe relationship as a significant threat to global peace.
