Experts say World War Three has already broken out — here are the signs
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - World War III has been deemed to have already occurred by experts, though its shape is no longer the same as in World War II. A scholar said that the global war is currently taking place in ways that are not directly visible and spreads across various realms in a more covert pattern.
That was conveyed by Dmitry Trenin, a researcher at the Institute of World Economy and International Relations of Russia and a member of the Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC).
“World War III has begun. It is just that not everyone realises it,” said Trenin in his latest analysis, first published by Profile magazine, as cited by RT some time ago.
He views that the pre-war phase for Russia began in 2014, for China in 2017, and for Iran in 2023. According to him, they were entering a chapter of conflict that is intensifying. Its form is not merely a contest of military power, but a comprehensive conflict including economic sabotage, social agitation, and destabilisation of enemy states.
Trenin also highlighted the direct involvement of NATO countries, such as the United Kingdom and France, in attacks against Russian targets through their support for Ukraine. “Ukraine is merely a tool. Brussels is preparing for a broader war,” he added.
According to him, this global war is triggered by Western fears of the rise of new powers such as Russia and China, seen as threats to Western geopolitical dominance and ideology.
“This is not merely a geopolitical contest; this is an existential war for the West. Globalism does not tolerate alternatives,” he remarked.
Trenin urged Russia not to remain defensive. He emphasised the importance of smart national mobilisation, strengthening the technology, economic, and demographic sectors, and consolidating with strategic partners such as Belarus and North Korea. In his analysis, fragility in the unity of the European Union should become a tactical opening for Russia.
He also mentioned that the return of United States President Donald Trump to the White House provides a tactical space to reduce the U.S. military pressure on Russia, while noting that U.S. foreign policy remains essentially confrontational.
On the other hand, Trenin stated that if escalation is unavoidable, Russia must be prepared to carry out pre-emptive strikes, including with nuclear weapons if necessary.
“Prevention must be active. If necessary, we must be ready to use special means with full awareness of the consequences,” he explained.
He said that victory in this conflict would not be measured by occupation of territory, but by the success of foiling the enemy’s plans. He closed his remarks by emphasising that the war today spans all fronts, from the military to the information narrative.
“The time for illusion is over. We are in World War III. The only path forward is through bold and strategic action,” concluded Trenin.