proxy war
/ˈprɒksi ˌwɔːr/
a conflict where major powers support opposing sides
proxy war in a sentence
“The civil war became a proxy war between superpowers.”
Origin of proxy war
From proxy substitute, agent
Related Words
containment
preventing the expansion of hostile power
deterrence
discouraging attack through threat of retaliation
brinksmanship
pushing a dangerous situation to the edge
Balkanization
fragmentation into smaller hostile units
Finlandization
forced neutrality under a powerful neighbor's influence
soft power
influence through culture and values rather than coercion