Rules-Based International Order DOESN'T EXIST /Lt Col Daniel Davis & fmr Diplomat Ian Proud

Daniel Davis Deep Dive Merch: Etsy store

Ian Proud challenges the idea of a “rules-based international order,” calling it a Western invention. Instead, he pointed to the UN Charter (1947) as the legitimate global framework, which emphasizes sovereignty and indivisible security. From Russia’s perspective, the West also broke rules—particularly in 2014, when Moscow saw the ouster of Ukraine’s elected, pro-Russian president as an unconstitutional coup supported by the U.S. and UK. That event, in their view, was the “original sin” leading to the current conflict.

This narrative resonates with much of the developing world, which increasingly sees NATO and the West as aggressive, sanction-heavy, and hegemonic. That perception has fueled the rise of BRICS and boosted Russia’s and China’s global standing. Ironically, Western efforts to isolate Moscow may be isolating the West in parts of the Global South.

At the UN Security Council, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned of escalating American support if Russia refuses peace—suggesting arms sales, even offensive weapons, rather than free aid. The analyst noted this mainly benefits the U.S. defense industry while leaving Ukraine bankrupt and Europe footing the bill. European elites are still pledging more defense spending, even as their economies struggle, which plays into Putin’s attrition strategy: watching Europe weaken itself while Russia slowly gains ground.

Ukrainian President Zelensky argued that Putin personally avoids negotiation, sending powerless delegates instead, and accused him of using diplomacy only to stall. He also criticized China, claiming it could end the war if it pressured Moscow, but instead stays passive—despite Russia’s growing dependence on Beijing.