On Some Terminological Issues in the Theory of Military-Political Alliances

This article critically examines the problems of terminology within contemporary military-political alliance theory. The study aims to clarify and classify the primary forms of state alignment, such as alliances, unions, coalitions, ententes, and strategic partnerships, which are often conflated in academic and political discourse. By systematically distinguishing these concepts, the author seeks to establish a coherent theoretical framework for analyzing interstate cooperation in the emerging multipolar world order. The research employs formal-logical and dialectical methods, alongside a comprehensive review of both Western and non-Western scholarship. The study’s novelty lies in its rigorous deconstruction of conventional application of the mentioned terms and their systematization. Key findings include a taxonomy of alignment forms, emphasizing their varying degrees of formality and depth. The main conclusion is that proper definition of state alignment forms (from strategic partnership to binding military alliance) facilitates the analysis of state interaction in the international arena. The study results are presented in a scheme demonstrating the interconnection of key terms.

alliance, alignment, coalition, entente, strategic partnership, protectorate, union, security community