YouGov: “ Conflict as Likely Within a Decade”

Conflict as Likely Within a Decade

According to a YouGov poll reported by The Guardian, a significant number of Americans and Western Europeans believe that World War III could break out within the next 5–10 years.

The most commonly cited potential cause is rising tensions with Russia. The poll was conducted to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the victory in World War II.

Perceived Likelihood of World War III in the Next Decade:

France: 55% believe it is very or fairly likely

Spain: 50%

Italy: 46%

USA: 45%

UK: 41%

Germany: 41%

Expectations About the Nature of a Future Conflict:

Nuclear weapons: 68% to 76% believe nuclear weapons would be used.

Casualties: 57% to 73% think World War III would result in more victims than World War II.

Global fatalities: 25% to 44% believe most of the global population could die.

Confidence in National Defense Capabilities:

France: 44% believe their army could protect them

Germany: Only 16% share that belief

USA: 71% express confidence in their military’s ability to defend the country