antagonistic –adj. showing opposition or anger

cozying up –v. to become friendly with

sanctions –n. punishments usually in the form of trade restrictions that are meant to force a country to obey international law

strategic –adj. related to a larger plan meant to reach a big goal in war, diplomacy or politics

by default –phrase what happens when nothing else is done to affect and outcome

realm –n. an area of activity, interest or knowledge

ballistic –adj. describing a weapon that can be shot at great speed over a long distance

reluctant –n. showing doubt or unwillingness to do something