It has become a refrain among analysts that we have entered a new world order, with the law of the jungle replacing the old international rules-based system. This new order is said to be shaped by empires using raw power to expand their spheres of influence and vassalize others, rather than being structured by “multilateral” international agreements between large and small nations.

The wars that Russia, the United States, and Israel have waged in recent years—and are currently waging against Ukraine, Iran, and Lebanon—are supposed to illustrate this point. Many countries in the world are indeed looking on in horror, not least those in Europe, waking up from the slumber of a long, well-managed peace that lasted eight decades. It’s fair to wonder if they can prevent this jungle from reaching and overwhelming them, too.

It has become a refrain among analysts that we have entered a new world order, with the law of the jungle replacing the old international rules-based system. This new order is said to be shaped by empires using raw power to expand their spheres of influence and vassalize others, rather than being structured by “multilateral” international agreements between large and small nations.

The wars that Russia, the United States, and Israel have waged in recent years—and are currently waging against Ukraine, Iran, and Lebanon—are supposed to illustrate this point. Many countries in the world are indeed looking on in horror, not least those in Europe, waking up from the slumber of a long, well-managed peace that lasted eight decades. It’s fair to wonder if they can prevent this jungle from reaching and overwhelming them, too.

But first, another question needs to be asked: Is the analysis accurate? What are autocrats like U.S. President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, or Chinese President Xi Jinping........

© Foreign Policy