Could a hot second cold become WW3? This is how I see it happening. First off in Eastern Europe both Russia and NATO ultimately declare war on each other in Ukraine thus begining the war that is followed by China coming to Russia's aid by invading Taiwan. The US retaliates by going after Russian and Iranian forces in Syria with the help of Israel. The Russians kick into action with more support in the form of military aid being funneled into Francafrique, a wave of coups follow. The war becomes really heated up traditional neutral countries in Europe like Ireland, Switzerland and Austria agree to host NATO bases in harbours and the use of airspace while the Chinese and Iranians set up military outposts in Venezuela and Cuba as a springboard to launch attacks against the US. Finally a coalition of Asian - Pacific states attack China and North Korea in the South China Sea.