Global Debt Hits Record $365 Trillion as Europe Faces Interest Crisis

Global debt reached a record 365 trillion dollars in the first half of 2026, an increase of 10 trillion dollars, fueling widespread social unrest across Europe as governments struggle with soaring interest costs. Advanced economies paid over 3.3 trillion dollars in interest on sovereign bonds in 2025, exceeding global spending on defense and artificial intelligence investments. France now faces a borrowing cost of 4.89%, higher than Italy and Greece, prompting massive protests. The United States holds the largest public debt at 41.4 trillion dollars, while Japan has the highest debt-to-GDP ratio at 199%. Rising interest rates are forcing governments to consider tax increases or spending cuts, reducing funds for public services.