Approaching War Clouds? War is the permanent state of affairs, Peace is only transient. Rising International instability, the resurgence of Realpolitik and the return of a rejuvenated Russia in the geopolitical arena - a sign of things to come? As we go further into the 21st century, the drums of war have been getting louder and louder. Even an ordinary civilian who isn't a geopolitical observer will opine that there is more conflict and increasing tension around the world when compared to the relatively peaceful 90s and early 2000s. While the 90s were marred by inter-ethnic clashes in the aftermath of Yugoslavia's collapse, as well as the brief and inconclusive war between India and Pakistan, the period of 15 years since have been arguably the most peaceful period in the history of mankind. Where did the chaos begin? And what was the flash-point? Lets observe some of the moves by the major players in the geopolitical arena and how they have c