Exclusive: Poll before 80th anniversary of VE Day finds tensions with Russia seen as most probable cause

Poll before 80th anniversary of VE Day finds tensions with Russia seen as most probable cause

80 years after the second world war, polling shows many Americans and western Europeans believe an even more devastating third global conflict could break out within a decade, with tensions with Russia seen as the most probable cause.

As Europe prepares to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, the YouGov polling also showed large majorities felt that events during and before the second world war were relevant today and must continue to be taught to younger generations.

Between 41% and 55% of respondents in the five European countries polled: Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Spain, said they thought another world war was very or fairly likely within the next five to 10 years, a view shared by 45% of Americans.

Majorities of 68% to 76% said they expected any new conflict would involve nuclear weapons, and between 57% and 73% also said a third world war would lead to greater loss of life than in 1939-1945. Many (25% to 44%) believed it would kill most people in the world.

    • P00ptart@lemmy.world
      2·
      20 hours ago

      Honestly, I think that’s unlikely. They tend to keep nukes out of the equation, and keep it to themselves. And honestly as far as nuclear armed skirmishes go, India’s kept pretty well within historical boundaries. I.e. they’re in constant skirmishes with both Pakistan and China, and sometimes Russia. The fact that that region has remained as stable as it has is a bit of a testament to peace that we should all agree is good, this latest bit notwithstanding. Hopefully it can remain a smallish issue globally, and they resolve it soon, especially because global warming threatens them both.