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Top Global Threats According to Various Countries in 2025
Understanding international perspectives on geopolitical threats provides valuable insight into global relations today. Recent data from Pew Research Center’s 2025 Global Attitudes Survey reveals which nations each country perceives as the most significant threat. Here’s a comprehensive overview:
1. The United States Identifies China as Its Leading Threat
In 2025, 42% of Americans see China as the greatest threat to U.S. security and stability. This perception has intensified over the years, driven by ongoing economic competition, technological rivalry, and military advancements. Tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, alongside diplomatic disputes, continue to shape American strategic interests toward China.
Image: A U.S. Navy warship patrolling the South China Sea.
Source: Pew Research Center – Global Attitudes Survey, 2025
2. Canada Views the United States as Its Main Threat
Despite deep ties, 59% of Canadians now perceive the U.S. as their biggest threat. This shift stems from concerns over border security, trade disagreements, and differing stances on global issues, emphasizing the fragility of even traditionally close alliances.
3. France and Germany Express Concern Over Russia
Both European heavyweights see Russia as the primary threat:
- 50% of French citizens
- 59% of Germans
This outlook is rooted in Russia’s military activities in Eastern Europe, notably the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, as well as cyber warfare and disinformation campaigns that undermine European security.
4. Greece and Turkey: An Escalation of Regional Rivalries
- Greece: 74% see Turkey as the greatest threat. With longstanding disputes in the Aegean Sea and territorial claims over Cyprus, tensions remain high.
- Turkey: 43% identify Israel as their main threat, driven by regional conflicts and political disagreements.
5. Russia’s Perceived Enemies Depend on National Context
The perception of Russia as a threat varies:
- Countries like Poland (81%), Sweden (77%), and Netherlands (57%) overwhelmingly see Russia as their top concern, fueled by historical tensions and recent military posturing.
- Hungary and Italy also perceive Russia as a significant threat, with 33% and 32%, respectively.
6. Asia-Pacific Nations: Diverse Perspectives on Security Threats
- Japan: 53% view China as the primary threat, concerned about territorial disputes and regional dominance.
- South Korea: 40% see North Korea as the main threat, reflecting ongoing missile tests and nuclear proliferation concerns.
- India: Skews toward Pakistan, with 41% seeing Islamabad as the main danger.
- Indonesia: 40% perceive the U.S. as their biggest threat, mainly due to regional security concerns.
7. Middle East and African Countries: Different Focuses
- Israel: 52% see Iran as their greatest threat, emphasizing nuclear proliferation and regional instability.
- Turkey: 43% perceive Israel as the main threat, tied to its policies in the Middle East.
- Kenya: 25% view Somalia as their primary threat, mainly related to regional security and border issues.
8. The Americas: The U.S. and Neighboring Concerns
- Mexico: 68% see the U.S. as the biggest threat, driven by migration, trade policies, and border security.
- Brazil: 29% and Argentina: 24% identify the U.S. as the primary concern, though regional issues are also significant.
- South Africa: 35% perceive the U.S. as a threat, influenced by global power competitions.
Insights Summary:
| Country | Main Threat | Percentage of Population Concerned |
|---|---|---|
| United States | China | 42% |
| Canada | U.S. | 59% |
| France | Russia | 50% |
| Germany | Russia | 59% |
| Greece | Turkey | 74% |
| Hungary | Russia | 33% |
| Italy | Russia | 32% |
| Netherlands | Russia | 57% |
| Poland | Russia | 81% |
| Spain | U.S. | 31% |
| Sweden | Russia | 77% |
| United Kingdom | Russia | 49% |
| Australia | China | 52% |
| India | Pakistan | 41% |
| Indonesia | U.S. | 40% |
| Japan | China | 53% |
| South Korea | North Korea | 40% |
| Israel | Iran | 52% |
| Turkey | Israel | 43% |
| Kenya | Somalia | 25% |
| South Africa | U.S. | 35% |
| Argentina | U.S. | 24% |
| Brazil | U.S. | 29% |
| Mexico | U.S. | 68% |
Data source: Pew Research Center – Global Attitudes Survey, 2025
Final Thoughts
The landscape of international threats continues to evolve rapidly in 2025. Regional tensions, ideological conflicts, and strategic rivalries dominate perceptions, underscoring the importance of diplomacy, military preparedness, and international cooperation. Countries’ views often reflect their historical experiences, regional security concerns, and evolving geopolitical realities.
By staying informed about these perceptions, policymakers and global citizens alike can better understand the complex web of threats shaping our world today.
Note: This article is based on the latest available survey data from Pew Research Center, 2025.
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