What Will the World Look Like in 2026?

A Period of Great Uncertainty

Looking ahead to 2026, the world seems to be heading into a period of great uncertainty. The old ways of doing things are fading, and a new, less stable order is taking shape.

Shifting Spheres of Influence

• United States: Still the only country with global reach.
• Russia and China: Staking out their own spheres.
• Mid-Sized Powers: Turkey and Saudi Arabia making their mark.

The Fading International Community

• UN Security Council: Once a pillar, now a symbol of the past.
• Europe: Committed to rules-based world but limited by internal divisions.

Tensions in Latin America

• U.S. Presence: Felt in Venezuela, signaling willingness to use force.
• Election Impact: Unlikely to send troops, relying on threats instead.

Russia and China's Response

• Public Condemnation: Of U.S. actions.
• Private Pleasure: At America's aggressive approach, potentially emboldening their own actions.

The War in Ukraine

• Likely End: In 2026, but outcome uncertain.
• Negotiated Settlement: Probable, but guarantees likely worthless.

China's Military Activities

• Intimidation Tactics: In East and South China Seas.
• Taiwan's Support: Looking to neighbors, effectiveness unclear.

Middle East Instability

• Gaza Conflict: No end in sight.
• Syria: Gradual improvement, best hope for positive change.

Africa's Struggles

• Sudan: Civil war likely to lead to division.
• Eastern Congo: Fighting could threaten government.
• Nigeria: Struggling with extremist violence despite U.S. pressure.

The New Direction

The world is heading in a new direction, one that is less stable and more unpredictable than anything we have seen in recent decades. The optimistic vision of a peaceful, unified world now seems like a distant dream.