Experts claim that World War III has already begun, describing it as a subtle, pervasive conflict across multiple domains. Unlike traditional global wars, this new form of warfare involves hybrid tactics, including cyberattacks, disinformation, and economic manipulation. Russia’s involvement in Ukraine exemplifies this, with unconventional tactics like espionage, sabotage, and assassination being employed.
In addition to the cyber front, physical warfare is still present in regions like Ukraine, where Russia’s military campaign and use of hypersonic missiles have caused catastrophic results for civilians and soldiers. The invasion of Ukraine by Putin marked a shift in the global geopolitical order, with tensions also rising in the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific.
Amidst this conflict, there is also an ideological battle between democracy and authoritarianism, with great powers like Russia and China aligning against Western democracies. As Europe faces the challenge of defending its democratic values, military and technological advancements are key to maintaining a strategic advantage.
While some analysts believe that the risk of escalation is high, others are more cautious, suggesting that World War III is not yet a certainty. Regardless, the need for adaptation, strategic resilience, and investment in defence systems remains crucial to mitigate emerging threats and navigate the evolving global crisis. The question now is not if the Third World War has begun, but how it will unfold in the coming years.
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