Russia and China are actively attempting to upend the maritime-based global order and return to a world of warring spheres of influence.
China's leadership is undermining its economic dynamism by favoring state-owned enterprises and pursuing a continentalist, expansionist agenda.
A failure to uphold the international order through diplomacy and alliances could lead to a third world war with nuclear consequences.
Continental powers like Russia employ strategies of destabilization and disinformation to weaken their neighbors.
Opportunities Identified
The maritime order, based on alliances and trade, allows for compounding wealth and prosperity as a powerful alternative to the continental model.
Alliances can bestow a collective maritime power package on member states, strengthening their security and economic position.
Economic pressure, like sanctions, can function as 'economic chemotherapy' to contain rogue states and limit their growth over the long term without direct military conflict.