American politician and lawyer Ted Lieu represents California's 33rd district in the US House of Representatives. He has been outspoken about his opinions on national security and foreign policy, frequently drawing on his personal experience of how various organizations and countries respond to dangers.

Years of studying international relations and handling different political crises have given Lieu his unique viewpoint. According to his quote, nations or individuals are more likely to alter their behavior when threatened with military action or financial penalties than when only diplomatic pressure is applied.

Consider a situation in which a local bully is causing unrest in a neighborhood. It may not be possible to stop the bully from carrying on with their disruptive behavior through diplomatic measures like talking and mediation. The bully might reconsider acting out, though, if the community implies that there will be repercussions, such as a request for assistance from a local police station or a pledge of firm action.

Similarly, Lieu thinks that threats of sanctions or military action are frequently more effective deterrents in international affairs than straightforward talks. This does not imply that these measures should be taken lightly; rather, they are viewed as essential instruments to guarantee security and uphold law and order globally.

The quote from Ted Lieu emphasizes the difficulties in handling international conflicts and the occasionally harsh realities that decision-makers must face in their efforts to uphold the interests of their countries and advance peace.