On Tuesday, atomic scientists adjusted the “Doomsday Clock” for 2026 to 85 seconds to midnight, marking its nearest approach ever to a point of theoretical global catastrophe.

The scientists pointed to long-standing threats like nuclear weapons and climate change, as well as emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, which they contend is being utilized to amplify the spread of false information. This marks the third instance in five years that the clock has been advanced toward midnight.

“We are running out of time, and every second is critical. This is a difficult reality, but it is the one we face,” stated Alexandra Bell, President and CEO of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists.

The “Doomsday Clock” is a symbolic indicator maintained by the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists that signifies the proximity of humanity to self-destruction via dangerous technologies. It originated in 1947 at the height of the Cold War, as the United States and the Soviet Union embarked on a full-scale nuclear arms race.

The significance of AI technology and its role in intensifying disinformation campaigns was heavily emphasized. During the announcement, Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Ressa remarked that the proliferation of social media and generative AI, which she said are not “grounded in facts,” has led to an “informational armageddon.”

“A predatory and extractive industry has turned human beings into commodities,” Ressa stated.

The scientists also highlighted recent conflicts involving nations with nuclear arsenals and urged the Trump Administration to mitigate the risk of nuclear proliferation by reopening dialogue with Russia.

The New START Treaty, which is the final pact limiting all Russian deployed intercontinental-range nuclear weapons, is scheduled to expire on February 4th, with no clear indication of renewal.

While Putin halted all inspections and data exchanges required by the treaty in 2023 due to the war in Ukraine, he has indicated a willingness to resume nuclear arms discussions in 2025. Trump has not yet replied to this proposal.

“This is an opportunity that the Trump Administration should have taken advantage of months ago,” said Science and Security Board member Jon B. Wolfsthal, noting that an agreement between the two nations could be achieved immediately, “today.”

Bell further commented that while policies from the Trump Administration have contributed to moving the clock closer to midnight, global leaders in general have performed dismally.

“Regardless of the administration, a move toward neo-imperialism and an Orwellian style of governance will only drive the clock closer to midnight,” she warned.

Despite the daunting nature of global challenges, Bell affirmed that they are created by people and therefore can be solved by people.

“There is no one simple fix for the issues confronting us, but they are solvable,” Bell said. “Historical instances of turning back the clock have always resulted from scientists and experts developing solutions, coupled with public demand for action.”