Choose the most appropriate alternative from the options given below to…

Answer: setbacks

Why this is correct:

• The word "setbacks" means difficulties or obstacles that were encountered.

• It collocates naturally with "despite": "Despite several setbacks, the mission succeeded..." expresses that success came in spite of problems.

Why the other choices are not suitable:

• The word "attempts" causes awkward repetition with the later phrase "the mission succeeded in its attempt" and does not emphasize obstacles.

• "Meetings" denotes gatherings rather than problems, so it does not create the intended contrast with success.

• "Delegations" refers to groups of representatives and does not convey difficulties or hindrances, so it is not appropriate here.