Veteran BBC world affairs editor John Simpson expressed profound concern about the year 2025, citing multiple major conflicts and their unprecedented geopolitical implications. With a career spanning over six decades and encompassing coverage of more than 40 wars, Simpson stated, "I've reported on more than 40 wars around the world during my career, which goes back to the 1960s...But I've never seen a year quite as worrying as 2025 has been."

Simpson's apprehension stems from the convergence of several ongoing conflicts, particularly the war in Ukraine, which he believes carries the potential to escalate into a global conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also voiced similar concerns, warning of a possible world war. Simpson, reflecting on his extensive experience, noted, "After nearly 60 years of observing conflict, I've got a nasty feeling he's right."

The geopolitical tensions extend beyond the Ukrainian conflict. NATO governments are reportedly on high alert, monitoring for potential Russian interference with undersea cables vital for Western electronic communication. Accusations have also surfaced regarding Russian drones testing NATO defenses and hackers targeting government ministries.

The current international landscape is further complicated by a shifting global order. The decline of American hegemony and the rise of alternative power centers, such as China and Russia, contribute to increased instability. These nations are challenging the existing international norms and institutions established after World War II, leading to a more multipolar world with competing interests and ideologies.

The potential for miscalculation and escalation is heightened in this environment. The interconnectedness of the global economy and the proliferation of advanced weaponry, including nuclear arms, raise the stakes of any major conflict. Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and find peaceful resolutions are facing significant challenges, as trust between major powers erodes and competing narratives dominate the international discourse. The situation remains fluid, with the potential for unforeseen events to further destabilize the global order.