Ukraine and Trump: Five trends that will shape the world in 2025, according to Forbes.

The forecast for the new year 2025 indicates that energy and climate factors will continue to influence the planet and humanity. Additionally, the events of the next 365 days will be shaped by the war in Ukraine and the policies of newly elected 47th President of the United States, Donald Trump. Forbes has published five key trends highlighted by investigative journalist and analyst Ken Silverstein, who focuses on climate issues.

2025 Forecast — Forbes Trends

The publication listed five primary trends for 2025, starting from the fifth position. Each trend was supported by events that occurred or began in 2024 and will continue into the future.

Trend 5 — on green energy. According to Silverstein, green energy will soon replace oil. His forecast suggests that zero-emission fuels will be used for both transportation and utility services. Furthermore, he anticipates growth in the "green hydrogen market": currently, investments total $1 billion, which is expected to rise to $30 billion by 2030.

Trend 4 — on natural disasters. The media reminded us that the number of hurricanes and tornadoes has increased due to climate change, which continues to destroy homes and infrastructure. The planet is nearing a threshold—an increase in temperature of 1.5 degrees Celsius—resulting in intensified precipitation and flooding due to warm, moist air.

"As we approach the 1.5-degree Celsius threshold, the situation will worsen," the publication stated.

Trend 3 — on climate. The article explained that 2024 was the hottest year on record, which is particularly concerning for Global South countries. Meanwhile, countries in the so-called Global North have begun constructing structures resilient to powerful hurricanes. Southern nations will strive to mitigate the harmful effects of carbon emissions and will work to restore and preserve tropical forests.

Trend 2 — on energy. The analyst predicts that Donald Trump's election will significantly affect energy and climate issues. According to his estimates, energy is the primary product of the American economy. The new government may be led by an individual interested in extracting shale gas (referring to Chris Wright). On the other hand, this official will need to balance between traditional and green energy, as well as consider climate change issues. The author of the forecast expressed hope that such balancing will indeed occur, as it would benefit society.

Trend 1 — on war. In 2024, Russia continued to destroy Ukraine's energy infrastructure, while Ukraine began to deliver significant strikes on the aggressor country’s oil and gas infrastructure and military targets (for example, a munitions factory). Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin has started threatening a "massive powerful strike," the article noted. The author highlighted the dire consequences of a potential Ukrainian collapse: in his view, five European countries would face threats.

"However, if Ukraine falls, the Baltic states, Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia may also [fall], not to mention Poland and Moldova, and a cold war will begin anew," the article states.

It is worth noting that on December 28, the Financial Times outlined five main actions of Donald Trump that will impact the world. Analysts pointed out that the American president might neglect the interests of Ukraine and Taiwan to focus on domestic issues or a reshaping of the world order. One scenario mentions that the U.S. is likely to divide spheres of influence with China and Russia.

We remind you that in October 2025, The Times reported on whether a new Ukrainian offensive can be expected in 2025.