In international relations, ethical considerations are often subjugated to the strategic interests of nation-states. Discuss this from an ethical perspective. (Answer in 150 words)

- In international relations, ethical considerations are often subjugated to the strategic interests of nation-states. Discuss this from an ethical perspective. (Answer in 150 words)
Introduction
International relations often reflect realpolitik, where national interest, security and power outweigh moral considerations. Yet, completely ignoring ethics can undermine legitimacy, trust and long-term stability.
Body
Ethical Tensions:
1. National Interest vs Universal Morality: States may support authoritarian regimes or overlook human-rights violations for strategic or economic gains.
2. Ends vs Means: Espionage, sanctions, covert operations and military intervention may be justified as necessary for security, despite ethical costs.
3. Selective Application of Principles: Sovereignty, democracy and human rights are sometimes invoked inconsistently, creating charges of hypocrisy.
4. Utilitarian Logic: States often prefer policies that maximize national benefit even when external costs fall on weaker populations.
5. Moral Responsibility: However, international law, humanitarian norms, climate obligations and refugee protection impose ethical limits on state conduct.
Conclusion
Thus, strategic interests cannot be eliminated from foreign policy, but they should be pursued within ethical constraints of proportionality, justice, human dignity and international law to ensure sustainable legitimacy.