Global Insecurity on the Rise as Russia, China Threats and Middle East Tensions Prompt Increased Military Spending
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Russia's invasion of Ukraine has dramatically altered Europe's security landscape, driving countries like Sweden and Finland to abandon neutrality and join NATO.
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China's military buildup and threats to Taiwan are catalyzing a major beefing up of defenses in Asia, with key US allies like Japan doubling defense budgets.
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Middle East tensions are exploding amid a conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed group Hamas in Gaza, raising fears of a major regional war.
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Global defense spending hit $2.2 trillion in 2022, a 9% year-on-year increase, as countries react to rising threats from peer competitors.
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84% of people surveyed across 30 countries believe the world is becoming more dangerous, the highest percentage since 2018.