thats what rule of the strong is, in the game or in real life, if you are a small nation in a hypothetical world where war is everywhere you wont be left alone. You will be eaten up by the greater powers. Though i will say it really isn't that hard to get a treaty with a top 50 to protect you if you have your alliance planned well and have a base. There are many alliances which have been successful below the previous umbrella of a stronger alliance, and thats what you gotta do.