Europeans and Americans consider nuclear world war possible

According to a survey conducted by the research company YouGov, a significant portion of the population in Western countries believes that World War III may break out within the next five to ten years. This was reported by the British outlet The Guardian. The study covered five European countries — the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain — as well as the United States.

In Europe, the percentage of citizens who consider a new global war likely ranges from 41% to 55%. The highest levels of concern were recorded in the UK and France, where responses reached the top of the range. Germany and Italy showed slightly lower levels of concern but still exceeded 40%. In Spain, anxiety levels were moderate compared to other countries, but a significant part of the population still shares these concerns.

In the United States, 45% of respondents expressed similar views. American participants were not only concerned about the possibility of global conflict, but also about the high probability of nuclear weapons being used. These fears have significantly increased amid rising international tensions, conflict in the Middle East, the war in Ukraine, and overall instability in the global security system.

The poll was conducted among adults and reflects current public sentiment in the face of multiple international crises. Participants particularly noted growing military spending, increasingly hostile rhetoric among nuclear powers, and the risk of miscalculations or provocations that could lead to large-scale military conflict.

Analysts attribute rising anxiety to changes in how people perceive geopolitical threats. Previously, the likelihood of nuclear war was considered very low in the West following the end of the Cold War. However, in recent years, concern has grown sharply amid worsening relations between major powers and a rise in military incidents worldwide.

Experts point out that citizens increasingly view the nuclear threat as a real factor affecting their safety. There is also a generational gap in perception: younger respondents tend to see the risk as hypothetical, while older individuals recognize signs of renewed confrontations similar to those of the late 20th century.

The study also found that a majority of respondents support strengthening national defense and developing civil protection systems. This indicates a growing public interest in safety and preparedness for potential emergencies. At the same time, concerns remain over the lack of sufficient international efforts in arms control and conflict prevention.

The results of the poll, as noted by The Guardian, have sparked discussion among international security experts and conflict researchers. Given the high level of distrust and tension between countries, public concern is seen as an indicator of the need for more active diplomacy and conflict de-escalation.

Research institutes emphasize that such sentiments can influence domestic and foreign policies, creating public demand for peacebuilding initiatives and international cooperation on security. The media’s role in shaping threat perceptions and the importance of balanced reporting on geopolitical events is also highlighted.

Do you have news that could become a sensation?
Or do you want to try yourself as an editor?
On altn.news , it's possible!
Share your materials, express your opinion, and test your skills as a journalist or editor.
It’s simple:
✅ Download the app:
       
      

✅ Register on the website.
✅ Create and publish your news.
Who knows, maybe your material will become the next big headline!
Start today on altn.news.

The editorial board is not responsible for the content and accuracy of material taken, sent or obtained from other sources. The publication of such materials is for informational purposes only and does not imply automatic endorsement or approval of their content.

Now you can receive our news directly in WhatsApp! Subscribe to our channel in this popular messenger and stay up to date with all events!