Honestly an eye opening development. If one believes the U.S. had a hand in the destruction of 3 of 4 Nord Stream pipelines in 2022, then a clear sequence has developed: - Identify a vulnerability with a key ally - Escalate that vulnerability - Position yourself to benefit from the response to it This can also be applied to tariffs against key trade partners. Introduce a new problem, then use that problem to your direct benefit. With tariffs, it's the use of them as leverage in trade concessions. This has recently been demonstrated effectively with both Korea and Mexico. The neo mercantilist United States continues catching people off guard. The old bargain is unraveling.