**Global Stability at Stake as Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan Face Threats** In 2025, Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan are engaged in critical battles that could reshape the global order. Each nation is confronting unique adversaries and challenges, but the stakes are universally high. A loss for any of these countries could signify a broader defeat for democratic values worldwide.

Ukraine's ongoing conflict with Russia has evolved into a grueling war of attrition. Russia's goals remain unchanged: to dominate Kyiv, weaken NATO, and reassert its influence over Eastern Europe. Recent Russian military actions, including offensives in Donbas and missile strikes, highlight President Vladimir Putin's long-term strategy. His approach combines traditional military tactics with energy manipulation, disinformation campaigns, and nuclear threats from Belarus and Kaliningrad. Ukraine's objective is clear: to reclaim its internationally recognized territory. Achieving this goal hinges on sustained Western support—military, economic, and political—despite growing political fatigue in the U.S. and Europe. This support is viewed not as charity but as a strategic investment in European stability. A Russian victory would not only alter borders but also embolden authoritarian regimes globally and undermine NATO's credibility.

In the Middle East, Israel is grappling with a multifaceted conflict that extends beyond Gaza. The recent 12-Day War against Iran demonstrated the Israel Defense Forces' capability to withstand a significant missile and drone assault, while also targeting Iran's nuclear facilities with U.S. assistance. However, this tactical success does not conclude the conflict. Groups like Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad continue to pose threats from Gaza, while Hezbollah remains active in Lebanon. Iranian proxies in Syria and Iraq, along with Houthi attacks from Yemen, further complicate the situation. The diplomatic landscape is precarious; the potential recognition of a Palestinian state without robust security measures could inadvertently establish an Iranian foothold near Tel Aviv, perpetuating instability in the region.

Meanwhile, Taiwan is under constant military pressure from China, facing naval encirclement drills, frequent airspace violations, and escalating cyberattacks. China's strategy aims to normalize coercion and weaken Taiwan's defenses without launching a full-scale invasion. However, the military balance is rapidly shifting, with China producing warships at an unprecedented rate and expanding its missile capabilities. The introduction of new amphibious assault ships enhances China's ability to conduct landings across the Taiwan Strait. Each year that passes without a strong, visible deterrent from the U.S. and its allies increases the risk that China may act before they are prepared.

These crises are interconnected. Moscow, Tehran, and Beijing are observing each other's conflicts, learning from them, and in some cases, collaborating. For instance, Iranian drones have been deployed from Russia to Ukraine, while China and Russia are strengthening their strategic partnership across various regions. A weakened Western response in one area could have ripple effects in others.

The imperative for the West is clear: effective deterrence requires consistent action. This involves three key strategies: supplying necessary military and economic support, maintaining that support over time despite political challenges, and clearly signaling that aggressive actions will incur significant consequences. Half-measures will not suffice in this critical juncture for global stability.