In "The Role of Non-State Actors as Proxies in Irregular Warfare and Malign State Influence," Dr. Sam Mullins examines how states like China and Russia leverage non-state actors (NSAs) to conduct irregular warfare, employing tactics that blur the lines between peace and conflict. These NSAs engage in activities ranging from persistent low-level operations aimed at undermining adversaries' institutions to more aggressive actions that challenge the sovereignty of other nations.