The US- Russia tension over ukraine show that sanctions are a significant instrument used in International Politics. To consider the incentive for sanctions, it might be useful to ponder the nature of relationship. There are two hypothetical extremes between the relation of two states. The first is complete autarky. This means that if any two states which are autark, there is no relationship and therefore no consequences of breaking a relationship. The next is a perfectly symmetrical relationship. The latter means that two states rely insofar on each other, that when any of the two states break their relationship, the two nations will be equally hurt. Inbetween autarky and perfect symmetry exist assymetrical relationship meaning that one states has more leverege over the other. Only in such a situation, a state has a theoretical incentive to use their levarage to advantage, such as imposing sanctions. If a relationship where one relies moree on one than the other, then the other can take advantage such a relationship. Overall, to prevent the existance of sanctions in international politics, it maybe desirable to seek the extremes than the normal.