A new poll conducted by Politico reveals that people in key NATO nations, including the US, Canada, the UK, France, and Germany, are largely unwilling to accept financial sacrifices to increase military spending, even as they express deep concerns about escalating global tensions. The survey found that majorities from four of these five countries feel the world is becoming increasingly dangerous, with many expecting the onset of World War III in the near future. The findings suggest a significant public apprehension regarding security threats alongside reluctance to change personal economic behaviors in response to perceived dangers.

Among the respondents, nearly half of Americans believe that the possibility of a new world war is very likely or likely to occur by 2031, marking an increase from previous years. In the UK and France, similar sentiments were observed, with 43% of participants from both nations anticipating the potential for war within five years. In contrast, Canadians are slightly more optimistic, with 40% expecting a global conflict, while Germans appear more skeptical, as a majority do not foresee a significant war occurring in the near term. This divergence in perspectives among NATO members could complicate unity in defense strategies and spending priorities.

The survey highlights a stark disconnect between the perceived necessity for increased defense resources and the willingness to fund them, reflecting broader challenges facing NATO as it navigates complex geopolitical landscapes. Leaders may find it increasingly difficult to rally public support for military spending without addressing underlying economic concerns and the populations’ ambivalence towards sacrifices in their personal budgets. This dynamic could influence policy decisions and complicate future defense commitments, affecting not just NATO cohesion but also international security strategies.