Mariya Grinberg, an MIT political scientist, examines the surprising phenomenon of countries trading with each other during wartime in her new book "Trade in War: Economic Cooperation Across Enemy Lines," published by Cornell University Press. The book explores why and how states maintain economic trade even while engaged in military conflict. Grinberg highlights historical examples such as Britain importing dyes from Germany during World War II and India-Pakistan trade during their wars. She explains that wartime trade involves a strategic calculation by states, weighing military advantages against economic costs. Severing trade by one side can deny the enemy access to products useful for military purposes but also damages that state's economy and risks losing long-term market share to neutral countries. According to Grinberg, trade continues if it does not help the enemy win the war in the short term or damage the state's long-term economic security. For instance, products like diamonds may be traded despite their eventual potential military financing value because they take time to convert, while items immediately useful for warfare are withheld. States prioritize economic stability if the war's stakes and duration allow it. Her research traces the origin of modern wartime trade to the Crimean War and the establishment of neutral rights that enabled goods to be shipped via neutral parties. This challenges the common misconception that countries completely halt trade with enemies during wars. Grinberg also notes that states often misjudge the length of wars, expecting them to end quickly but frequently being wrong, which complicates trade decisions. Her ongoing research investigates why states go to war unprepared, highlighting the disconnect between historical lessons and strategic expectations. "Trade in War" is considered a significant contribution to understanding the complex intersection of economics and security in international relations, demonstrating that strong trade ties do not necessarily prevent conflicts. Grinberg hopes her work will encourage further research in wartime economic interactions. For press inquiries, contact Abby Abazorius at MIT News Office (abbya@mit.edu, 617-253-2709). The book is available through Cornell University Press. Related topics include books and authors, faculty, international relations, security studies, political science, research, and the School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences at MIT.