Artificial Intelligence in Compromised Geographies: Redefining Power and Territorial Challenges

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising geopolitics and territorial dy-namics, reshaping global power relations in profound and multifaceted ways. This chapter explores AI’s dual role: as a tool for enhanced territo-rial control and surveillance, and as a source of new vulnerabilities and instabilities in the geopolitical landscape. Through the analysis of critical case studies, including the Israel-Hamas conflict, the Russia-Ukraine war, and the technological rivalry between USA and China, the chapter re-veals how AI-driven technologies, such as drones and predictive analyt-ics, are transforming conflict dynamics, deepening territorial inequali-ties, and exacerbating geopolitical tensions. AI’s integration into geopolitical strategies has accelerated the evolution of warfare, challenged traditional power structures and introduced risks of unforeseen escalations. At the same time, the global competition for AI supremacy exemplifies how technological advancements redefine in-ternational alliances and influence global governance. To address these challenges, the chapter advocates for the integration of Science Diplo-macy as a framework to promote international collaboration and ethical governance of AI technologies. By fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and cooperative approaches, this framework seeks to mitigate risks while maximising AI's potential to ad-dress global challenges. Balancing AI’s benefits and risks, the chapter emphasises the need for governance mechanisms that ensure AI con-tributes to global stability, equitable development, and sustainable peace.