Hear me out, yes it's possibly a conspiracy theory, but hey feel free to prove me wrong. I will gladly accept it, and thank you for it.

I believe it's about time for a massive global political shift. Some authoritative powers have been testing the waters. Who's really punishing Russia for invading Ukraine? Who's really stopping the PRC from doing what they're doing in the South China Sea? Nobody. That's why Australia is seeing their shit. The PRC is moving into the Pacific. How am I seeing this? I've kinda been studying history, and as a DM for a homebrewed world, I've been wanting to implement a realistic feel to my world's history. About every 100-150, years there's been a massive political shift in the western world.

1900's - both WW and the Cold War: WW1, Austria-Hungary dissolves, Ottoman Empire dissolves, Russian empire dissolves, Soviet Union forms, Germany ramps up, appeasement (hold up a moment!). WW2, US and Soviet Union become global super powers. Cold War, US ends up sole global superpower.

1800's - US, Civil War. Abolishment of slavery. Napoleonic Wars, dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire. Rise of France. UK becomes MASSIVE global superpower, ruling essentially 1/3 of the entire globe. Dissolution of Prussia, rise of Germany. Italy unifies. Russia modernizes. Japan modernizes. Spanish and Portuguese empires dissolve. Balkan region of Europe becomes powderkeg.

1700's - The Northern war ends, Sweden weakens. 7 years war, rise of Prussia. Britannia rules the waves becomes fact. US sparks global rebellions.

1600's - 30 years war, rise of Protestantism. Northern War begins between Sweden, Russia, Poland, and Prussia.

These are just what I know, feel free to educate me and correct me if I'm wrong. Like I said, it's just an idea.