Reflections on War - Ideas From Carl von Clausewitz & Sun Tzu

War is the continuation of politics by other means, spurred by the will to power.

Strength prevents war, and readiness for war is often the path to peace. To win a war, find the enemy's center of gravity, their key point of power enabling them to resist, and attack it. The object of war is to force the will of the enemy, not mindless destruction. Sometimes the best defense is a bold offense that disrupts the plans of your adversary before they can take root.

Strategy is key.

Winning is greatest when achieved without battle, by breaking the enemy's will. Knowing when to engage is crucial. Understand their perspective. Effective leadership involves guiding from the front, fostering unity and strength among colleagues. In international relations, keeping potential enemies close helps reduce threats.

War cannot be confined to itself; it is the extension of politics where diplomacy has failed.

Both are basically about the desire to possess power. One has got to draw guns if need be. A nation that projects strength, similar to the USA or Russia, deterrents are there because of military powers and the will to act.

True strength is in readiness and strategic superiority, not in physical might. Victory consists in outmaneuvering the opponent, striking at his weak points, and undermining his morale. The crowning achievement is to win without shedding a drop of blood by destroying the enemy's morale and breaking his will. Understanding the enemy's fears and motivations provides a strategic advantage, allowing one to stay one step ahead of their actions.