What type of threat does preventive warfare seek to address?

Preventive warfare is a strategic concept aimed at addressing potential threats before they escalate into active conflicts or full-scale wars. The essence of this approach is to take action against perceived risks that could lead to adverse consequences in the future, effectively neutralizing those threats early on. This proactive stance often stems from a desire to maintain stability and security, particularly in environments where the risks of aggression or conflict are seen as imminent.

In the context of preventive warfare, intervening before a threat fully materializes can prevent larger and more unpredictable military engagements later on. This approach is consistent with the idea that waiting for a threat to become an actual conflict may lead to greater costs in terms of lives, resources, and geopolitical stability.

The other options, while relevant in different military or diplomatic contexts, do not accurately align with the core purpose of preventive warfare. Establishing peace agreements, addressing existing military conflicts, or pursuing negotiated disarmament involves responses to already active or existing situations rather than taking preemptive measures against potential threats. Therefore, focusing on potential threats before they escalate is the defining characteristic of preventive warfare.