If you're like me you're confused WTF is going on in Europe. Here's a summary.

1. Russia & Ukraine (and NATO tensions)

• War ongoing: Since February 2022, Russia has been engaged in a full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
• Current state: The war is still active, with front lines in eastern and southern Ukraine. Russia holds some occupied regions; Ukraine continues counteroffensives with Western aid.
• NATO tensions: Countries like Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania fear Russian aggression, boosting defence and NATO coordination.

Estonia frequently faces Russian-linked cyberattacks, a continuation of hybrid warfare.

2. Estonia (and the Baltics)

Not in a war, but:

• Constant threat perception due to proximity to Russia and historical Soviet occupation.
• NATO member: Strong military presence from the US and NATO as a deterrent.
• Cyber defence hub: Estonia leads in countering disinformation and cyber threats.

3. Iran

• Proxy wars: Iran backs militant groups like Hezbollah (Lebanon), Houthis (Yemen), and various militias in Iraq and Syria.
• Israel-Iran tensions: High due to nuclear programme concerns and proxy engagements.
• US sanctions: Continue to cripple Iran’s economy.
• Domestic unrest: Protests over women’s rights and economic conditions periodically flare up.

4. Israel (and Gaza, Lebanon, Syria)

• Gaza conflict: In 2023-24, Israel engaged in major military operations in Gaza, following Hamas’ 2023 attack.
• Civilian toll: Very high on both sides; sparked global condemnation and support splits.
• North tensions: Border clashes with Hezbollah in Lebanon are frequent. Risk of wider war remains high.
• Internal politics: Deep political divide over judicial reform and occupation policies.

5. Other Flashpoints

• China–Taiwan: High tension; no war yet, but Chinese military drills and global anxiety about a future invasion.
• Sudan: Brutal internal war between army and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces since 2023. Massive humanitarian crisis.
• Myanmar: Civil war since the 2021 military coup continues, with resistance groups gaining ground.
• Yemen: Ongoing civil war, with fragile peace talks between Houthis and Saudi-backed forces.
• Sahel (Africa): Multiple jihadist insurgencies in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Some regimes overthrown by military juntas.

6. Summary Themes

• Old rivalries (e.g. Russia-West, Israel-Iran) persist and evolve.
• Hybrid warfare (cyberattacks, misinformation) is common.
• Civilians bear the brunt of modern conflicts.
• Global powers (USA, China, Russia, EU) are indirectly or directly involved in many theatres.

7. Reflection

Since the 9/11 attacts on the New York Towers, I have always thought we were in World War 3. Russia vs Ukraine made me think WW4. Given other conflicts, are we living in the New World War?

Given the possibiliies, I think we need to name it before it's over.