A very interesting circumstance/scenario you bring up.
YOU'VE GOT TO SEE "ABOUT A BOY"...!!!

First off, IF it's completely obvious they will fail, then some type of diplomacy to at least understand why they are trying seems a reasonable approach to take. (For instance, Shatzy will forever revile me, or forever be ambivalent toward me, or both, and you know this, yet you say nothing.)

If the reason they are moving forward is "noble" or at least is in earnest, then your support can make the difference.