We just need leaders in place who understand these systems, the economics, and trust that once investing resources into their own people and nations who are ali

We just need leaders in place who understand these systems, the economics, and trust that once investing resources into their own people and nations who are aligned with the same/similar values - with freedom of speech at their core - that they will work hard and generate an ROI for their work; understanding the human heart, mind, will, and exponentials are the key to having this faith - faith perhaps deriving from seeing the good and potential in every being. You're correct that more than sanctions are necessary, you need to also invest in the infrastructure and production of goods that your society primarily relies on. There's tons of space for innovation and improving efficiencies in this space via automation, vertical and horizontal integration, reducing planned obsolescence, etc. There's an incredible amount of waste in our societies, along with other types of pollution we must address. All this requires is work, which means jobs, and adequate organization and appropriate directing of resources.