You can do it in all states, not just western. That’s disingenuous framing. It’s a function of large immovable structures of power. Power serves itself, and indirectly other aligned powers. USA, UK, Russia, China, Iran, UAE. Not saying they’re all equal on this, just that it happens. Whether it’s currency changing hands or just the loan of influence.

I agree though that the best ways to counter it start at home. If Russia disappeared tomorrow. Someone else would still be doing it.