cobelligerent

Cobelligerent refers to two or more nations or entities that are engaged in a common war against a common enemy, but without a formal alliance or mutual defense treaty. This means that while their military objectives align in a particular conflict, they do not necessarily share political goals or obligations beyond that specific war.

The relationship of cobelligerence is distinct from that of an ally. Allies typically enter into formal agreements that may include mutual defense, shared command structures, and broader political cooperation. Cobelligerents, on the other hand, are primarily united by their shared opposition to a particular foe. Their involvement in the war might be driven by separate national interests or strategic considerations, even if those interests converge in the fight against the common enemy.

Historically, instances of cobelligerence have occurred in various conflicts. For example, during World War II, the Soviet Union and Western Allies fought against Nazi Germany. While they were allies in the broader sense, their pre-war relationships and post-war goals were vastly different, highlighting elements of cobelligerence in their wartime cooperation against a shared threat. The concept emphasizes a pragmatic, situational alignment of military efforts rather than a deep, enduring political partnership.