With the recent exception of WW2 in Europe, I think most wars could be “stood down” before the bitter end is played out. Considering the remarkable success and relatively low cost of the Marshall Plan I think there is a lot to be gained. It is not at all clear to me whether it is more a matter of stubbornness or simply not knowing how to stop the fighting that keeps the monster alive.
With the recent exception of WW2 in Europe, I think most wars could be “stood down” before the bitter end is played out. Considering the remarkable success and relatively low cost of the Marshall Plan I think there is a lot to be gained. It is not at all clear to me whether it is more a matter of stubbornness or simply not knowing how to stop the fighting that keeps the monster alive.