The diplomat attempted to ---- tensions between the border nations by brokering an unconditional ceasefire agreement.

Answer and explanation

Correct answer: D. defuse

  1. Step 1: A ceasefire agreement is designed to make a dangerous situation calmer and less hostile.
  2. Step 2: To relieve, de-escalate, or eliminate hostile conflict is to defuse it.
  3. Step 3: 'Defuse' means to make a dangerous or tense situation calmer.
Answer
defuse.
Why not the others: 'Foster' means to encourage development; 'Kindle' means to ignite or stimulate hostility; 'Induce' means to bring about or stimulate.

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