John Simpson: ‘I’ve reported on 40 wars but I’ve never seen a year like 2025’
John Simpson, BBC’s world affairs editor, reflects on his extensive career, spanning over 40 wars since the 1960s. Despite witnessing the height and collapse of the Cold War, he emphasizes that 2025 stands out as uniquely troubling. The alarming conflicts erupting worldwide, particularly one with significant geopolitical implications, makes this year especially noteworthy.
2025: A Year of Global Conflict
– Ukraine: President Volodymyr Zelensky warns that the ongoing conflict could escalate into a world war. With nearly 60 years of experience, Simpson suggests Zelensky’s concerns are valid.
– NATO’s Vigilance: NATO nations remain on high alert for Russia’s potential sabotage of undersea cables that support Western infrastructure. There’s evidence of Russian drones testing defenses and cyberattacks aimed at disrupting services in the West.
– Covert Operations: Reports indicate that Russian secret services are involved in the assassination of dissidents who sought refuge in the West. The attempted assassination of former Russian agent Sergei Skripal is a strong reminder of the Kremlin’s high-level approval of such actions.
The Toll of War in 2025
– Casualties in Ukraine: The United Nations estimates that 14,000 civilians have died in Ukraine’s conflict.
– Gaza Conflict: Following a brutal assault resulting in around 1,200 Israeli fatalities on October 7, 2023, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed “mighty vengeance.” In the ensuing military operations, reports suggest over 70,000 Palestinians, including more than 30,000 women and children, have lost their lives—figures endorsed by Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry.
– Sudan’s Civil War: In Sudan, two military factions continue to tear the country apart, leading to over 150,000 deaths in recent years and displacing approximately 12 million people.
Despite developments like President Trump’s claimed success in negotiating a ceasefire in Gaza, the persistence of suffering presents a stark contrast to optimism. While fewer casualties have been reported, the conflict remains unresolved.
Geopolitical Tensions and the Future
The year 2025 has witnessed distinct wars, each adding to global instability. With Russia’s aggression, particularly its invasion of Ukraine, the potential for expanded conflict looms large. The balance of power has shifted, and as Russia pushes for greater influence, the risk of escalation grows.
– Russia’s Stance: Putin asserts that while Russia doesn’t seek war with Europe, they’re prepared to respond if provoked. An arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court for Putin underscores the international ramifications of his actions.
– European Uncertainty: Recent American foreign policy shifts have led to questions about the United States’ commitment to European defense. The Trump administration’s national defense strategy highlights a worrying trend: the perception of Europe as facing a stark prospect of civilizational erasure.
The Global Impact of 2026
Looking ahead to 2026, pivotal decisions lie on the horizon. Zelensky might feel pressured to agree to a peace deal that cedes territory, raising questions about future hostilities. Europe may face the monumental challenge of supporting Ukraine alone if U.S. assistance falters.
– Nuclear Risk: Concerns arise about transforming conflicts into catastrophic confrontations, with leaders like Putin displaying unpredictability. While nuclear responses remain a possibility, the current geopolitical landscape continues to evolve.
China’s Role in Emerging Tensions
As Xi Jinping maintains a watchful eye on Taiwan, the absence of direct threats does not negate the underlying tensions. The pressure on China to assert itself remains palpable, particularly in light of historical uprisings that remind leadership of domestic instability.
Conclusion
The outlook for 2026 appears bleak as major global players navigate a landscape fraught with peril. The possibility of wars unfolding through diplomatic posturing rather than outright confrontations poses a significant threat to the Western alliance. As Simpson notes, the impact of 2025 and beyond may redefine how nations engage with power and influence on the global stage. The events of this year serve as a stark reminder that the road ahead remains uncertain and fraught with challenges.