So, if I’m feeling like being an asshole, purposefully make the conversation awkward, then verbally blame the other person. Got it. (In reality, I think this is how everyone else acts when conversations turn awkward)

I personally think each state should go it’s own way, but hold a defensive aid pact. Should any one of them get attacked, the other states must come to their aid. After that’s, states can form their own unions at their leisure. This will deter states trying to forcefully gobble other states or China and Russia interfering.