A major global power struggle is unfolding, with Ukraine seeking to align with the West and Israel aiming to connect with the Arab East, while Russia and Iran work to thwart these efforts. This represents a significant geopolitical battle between two networks of nations and nonstate actors, one pushing for closed autocratic systems and the other for open, connected, pluralistic frameworks. The outcome will shape the future of the post-post-Cold War world. Vladimir Putin is determined to prevent Ukraine from joining the European Union, while Saudi Arabia seeks to position itself as a central hub for economic relations across the Middle East, Europe, and Israel. These developments carry far-reaching implications for the balance of power in the international arena.