John Simpson Reflects on a Pivotal Year in Global Conflict: 2025

Mon Dec 29 2025 07:49:48 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

With an alarming rise in global tensions and potential for widespread conflicts, veteran journalist John Simpson expresses deep concerns over the geopolitics of 2025, marking it as unprecedented in his decades of reporting.

Amid a backdrop of escalating wars and geopolitical instability, seasoned reporter John Simpson highlights the unprecedented nature of 2025, suggesting that current conflicts, particularly in Ukraine and Gaza, could have grave global implications. He warns of a possible increase in military aggression, particularly from Russia, and raises the alarm about the shifting dynamics between the US and Europe.

John Simpson has reported on over 40 wars through his extensive career, observing many significant geopolitical shifts. However, he expresses particular concern for the events surrounding 2025.

Simpson describes how Ukraine's ongoing conflict, now intensified, raises fears of a potential world war as stated by President Volodymyr Zelensky. Simpson articulates, After nearly 60 years of observing conflict, I've got a nasty feeling he's right. The year has been marked by severe civilian casualties in Ukraine, Gaza, and Sudan, creating an atmosphere of heightened global tensions.

Within NATO, governments are on constant alert, scrutinizing any Russian movements that could destabilize the undersea cables crucial for maintaining societal functions in the West. Allegations against Russian authorities involve targeted attacks on dissidents in exile and cyber incursions, leaving many to believe the Kremlin's activities pose an increasing threat.

The conflicts in 2025 are diversified yet resonate with an alarming urgency. For instance, Gaza's violence escalated significantly following attacks on Israel, resulting in tens of thousands of Palestinian casualties. Additionally, the civil war in Sudan continues to wreak havoc, displacing millions.

With the year drawing to a close, Simpson notes that while the geopolitical landscape feels urgent, it also reflects a worrying shift in American foreign policy under President Donald Trump, who appears more focused on domestic issues than global responsibilities. This isolationist trend poses immediate risks for Europe, which may need to shoulder a greater burden for defense if US support dwindles.

Simpson concludes that 2026 could cement these trends further, speculating on whether Ukraine might concede territory in a peace deal while continuing to grapple with the long-term behaviors of Putin. The historical implications of increased autocracy and weakened alliances around the globe raise crucial questions about the future.