> vast amounts of money on cultural programs for countries that didn't want them.

I don't understand. How do you give someone money if they don't want it?

More like "if we can't be partners we'll find your enemies and fund them instead." or, "we'll partner with your next of kin who may be more sympathetic [or suggestive] to our concerns."

Because they have other things you do want. I’m sure you actually do understand that.