In an article for The Washington Post columnist and Pulitzer Prize winner George F. Will raises a disturbing topic: World War III has already begun. He points to the fact that current global conflicts span 6 of the 24 time zones, and American politicians, including presidential candidates, are showing “reckless disregard” for this fact.
Signs of the start of World War III
Will argues that the start of World War III can be traced to the start of Russia's full-scale aggression against Ukraine, which began in February 2022, as well as the seizure of Crimea in 2014. The conflict affects several important regions:
- Ukraine and Russia – a key front of the war.
- Iran and Israel — Iran's expected response to Israeli aggression.
- China and Philippines — the threat of Chinese expansion in the South China Sea.
- North Korea — support for Russia and participation in conflicts.
Quote from George F. Will:
“And U.S. involvement in World War III began even before this week’s decision to send a sophisticated missile defense system and about 100 troops to operate it to Israel. The United States provides intelligence and weapons Israel and Ukraine, because these countries, like Britain in 1940, are fighting for their survival and our civilization“,” he writes.
Ignoring the crisis by US presidential candidates
Will expresses dissatisfaction with the fact that none of the US presidential candidates demonstrate an understanding of the seriousness of what is happening. In his opinion, this indifference is “reckless.”
Quote from The Washington Post:
“This global disorder will define the reputation of the Biden-Harris administration more than extravagant spending (not including defense). And this year, Viktor Orban, the Hungarian prime minister close to Putin and opposed to aid to Ukraine, visited Trump twice in 125 days at Mar-a-Lago,” the author stated.
Global context
The situation requires attention as the main countries involved in the conflicts are China, Russia, Iran and North Korea. The interaction between them creates an axis that could threaten global stability.
Quote from George F. Will:
“The days when the United States could ignore such conflicts are over.”
Geography of modern warfare
The war covers large areas, which makes it more complex. This can be illustrated by the following table:
| Region | Main participants | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ukraine | Russia | Key struggle for independence |
| Iran | Israel | Iranian response expected |
| China | Philippines | Threat to Philippine sovereignty |
| North Korea | Russia | Support for Russia and participation in conflicts |
Forecasts for the future
Will also notes that beginning storm is gaining strength in the international arena, and its consequences can be devastating. US presidential candidates must recognize the scale of the threat and act to prevent further escalation.
Quote from George F. Will:
“Gathering storms are gathering strength. Then they spend their accumulated violence.”
Conclusion
George F. Will at The Washington Post warns that ignoring current conflicts and their scale could lead to catastrophic consequences. It is important for the world that leaders of countries recognize the need for decisive action to maintain international security and stability.
