The hottest World Politics Substack posts right now

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Weekend Update #119: Fighting Men With Machines Is A Good Thing: Ukraine Should Aim To Do More And More Of It

Phillips’s Newsletter • 213 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Military Strategy International relations Conflict analysis Geopolitics War reporting
  1. Using machines, like drones, to fight can be a good strategy for Ukraine. It's safer for soldiers and can be more effective against Russian forces.
  2. Recent reports show that Russian advances have slowed down, which might indicate a shift in the conflict. It seems that despite expectations of a Ukrainian collapse, they are holding their ground.
  3. Ukraine has been successful in making small advances into Russian territory, which gives them leverage in any potential talks. This suggests that Ukraine is not as weak as some media portray.

What can Europe do?

Klement on Investing • 6 implied HN points • 21 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics EU policy Trade policy Sanctions Defense Policy Diplomacy Security Economic Policy
  1. The EU should push back firmly against U.S. threats because standing firm has proven more effective than appeasement.
  2. Europe has a wide range of tools it can use, from pausing trade talks and imposing tariffs to using tech rules, procurement preferences, anti-coercion measures, export taxes, and targeted fines, though some options risk short-term pain like higher inflation.
  3. If tensions escalated toward military annexation, the EU could take drastic steps such as limiting U.S. military presence, invoking mutual-defence mechanisms, restricting U.S. firms, and imposing sanctions and asset freezes.
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Occupy again (and differently)

Activist Futurism • 179 implied HN points • 24 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Activism Elites Climate change Imagination
  1. Activism's current theories of change are considered incorrect and need to be reevaluated.
  2. Today's activist culture is perceived as broken, leading to the creation of the online Activist School to address these issues.
  3. Political ideologies are seen as limiting our imagination of what can be achieved, pushing for the importance of thinking beyond traditional boundaries and forming alliances for tackling massive global challenges.

87% of world doesn't support West's new cold war on Russia

Geopolitical Economy Report • 338 implied HN points • 23 Sep 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Global South Multilateralism Neutrality Sanctions
  1. 87% of the world does not support the West's new cold war on Russia.
  2. New multilateral institutions like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS are gaining importance for countries in the Global South.
  3. There's a shift in the global financial landscape with a decline in US dollar hegemony and countries exploring alternatives like bilateral currency swaps.

Will Iran Surrender?

Comment is Freed • 101 implied HN points • 21 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Middle East Diplomacy Conflict resolution
  1. High-level talks are happening between European officials and Iran regarding nuclear limitations. Iran insists they need to stop Israeli aggression first.
  2. The US is not directly involved in these talks, which some believe is necessary for real progress.
  3. Iran may only agree to major concessions when they feel they are losing and can admit it publicly.

Russia on the Ropes

Diane Francis • 539 implied HN points • 22 Sep 22
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Military conflict Diplomacy Nuclear policy
  1. Putin is more isolated than ever, and he knows his war in Ukraine is failing. He is trying to recruit more soldiers and has made threats, but this shows desperation.
  2. Ukraine is succeeding on the battlefield, and there's a push for countries like China and Turkey to help mediate a ceasefire. The conflict might drag on through Winter as both sides try to gain the upper hand.
  3. Putin's threats of nuclear war are being taken seriously, but there is concern that using such weapons would harm his relationships with allies. The situation remains tense, with many calling for serious consequences if Russia escalates further.

UN expert: 'Outrageous' Western sanctions are 'suffocating' Syria, may be crimes against humanity

Geopolitical Economy Report • 279 implied HN points • 14 Nov 22
🌍 World Politics Sanctions Humanitarian Crisis Middle East International Law
  1. The UN expert condemned Western sanctions on Syria as 'outrageous' and harmful, possibly amounting to crimes against humanity.
  2. Sanctions have led to drastic economic downturn in Syria, with 90% living below the poverty line and essential goods becoming scarce.
  3. The impact of sanctions extends to critical areas such as healthcare, education, and basic services like water and electricity, putting the Syrian population in life-threatening conditions.

How the US created the “Iran-backed Houthis”

Nonzero Newsletter • 677 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Iran US Yemen China Demographics
  1. The US involvement in Yemen against the Houthis may have been based on misleading narratives.
  2. Artificial intelligence is advancing and could lead to job displacement for both low-skill and high-skill workers.
  3. China's population decline could be linked to unintended consequences of their one-child policy, affecting women's views on childbirth.

Slain Palestinian Children Have Names, Too

Pen>Sword • 419 implied HN points • 06 Aug 22
🌍 World Politics Palestine Conflict Children Media
  1. When we see the faces and learn the names of victims of violence, it makes them real and helps us remember them.
  2. It's important to commemorate Palestinian children killed by violence, as they have names, stories, and families too.
  3. By remembering and sharing the names of Palestinian victims, we can honor their lives and keep them alive in our consciousness.

Corruption exposed: US meddled in Ecuador's election, using Julian Assange as bargaining chip

Geopolitical Economy Report • 279 implied HN points • 12 Nov 22
🌍 World Politics US government Corruption Julian Assange
  1. The US interfered in Ecuador's 2017 presidential election by orchestrating a disinformation campaign against the leftist Correístas and supporting a conservative banker in exchange for Julian Assange.
  2. Ecuador's ex energy minister was coerced by US federal agents into making false corruption accusations against Correa and Glas, and even against a US citizen, leading to unjust imprisonment.
  3. The scandal involving US interference in Ecuador's election goes beyond politics, involving corrupt practices with Miami-based oligarchs like the Isaías Brothers who fled Ecuador with stolen funds.

Iran: You Go Girl

Diane Francis • 479 implied HN points • 03 Nov 22
🌍 World Politics International relations Civil Rights Political Movements Middle East
  1. Women in Iran are bravely protesting against a strict government that oppresses them. Their struggle for equality is dangerous, but they are determined to fight for their rights.
  2. The protests were sparked by the tragic death of Mahsa Amini after a police encounter, showing how deep the issues of violence and oppression run in society.
  3. Generations of Iranians are tired of living in fear and want to change their future. They believe this movement might be different, as it addresses broader issues beyond just the hijab.

Doing Battle with Piers

John’s Substack • 7 implied HN points • 21 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy Geopolitics Diplomacy Security Conflict Human Rights
  1. A televised debate covered many hot foreign policy issues, including how radical Trump's foreign policy is, a kidnapping in Venezuela and its likely consequences, talk of annexing Greenland, a failed attempt at regime change in Iran, and allegations about Israel's actions in Gaza.
  2. The show's host later fell, broke his leg, and required a hip replacement, and he is wished a speedy recovery with plans to return to the program.
  3. There have been other high-profile, heated exchanges with public figures like Roger Waters, highlighting a pattern of confrontational interviews.

🔜 ‼️ Reminder: Conversation with Terry Glavin

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 2 implied HN points • 15 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Diplomacy Foreign Policy International Order Peacekeeping Global Governance
  1. The inaugural Cosmopolitan Globalist Symposium starts in about two hours and will begin exactly on time at 4:30 pm Paris time, so plan to arrive a minute early.
  2. Zoom details are provided but some information sits behind a paywall. If you haven’t finished the reading, tell the host in the Zoom chat so you don’t get called on.
  3. The conversation will probe whether the liberal world order is weakening and aims to revive cordial, intelligent discussion, with full access available to subscribers while a free post is offered.

Talking with Glenn Greenwald

John’s Substack • 6 implied HN points • 25 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy Geopolitics Diplomacy Security International Law Regional politics
  1. The administration is portrayed as willing to directly interfere in Venezuela, including backing plans to kidnap or seize its leader and effectively run the country.
  2. Invoking the Monroe Doctrine is being used to justify intervention, but this is a distorted reading that ignores the doctrine's historical limits.
  3. Such aggressive policies risk violating international norms, destabilizing the region, and undermining long-term U.S. credibility and security.

The Tribes are just Vibes

Joxley Writes • 78 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Political parties
  1. The Tory Party is experiencing internal disintegration and confusion with the emergence of factions like the Popular Conservatives, lacking clear policies and offering little new ideas.
  2. The press's depiction of the Popular Conservatives as 'hard right' showcases the blurry nature of the party's internal divisions, with members like Liz Truss leaning towards libertarianism and confusion arising from various ideologies within the party.
  3. The launch of factional groups within political parties can sometimes come across as just a performance for journalists, lacking substance and real impact.

ARE WE STILL FIGHTING IRAN?

Seymour Hersh • 17 implied HN points • 10 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East Iran Nuclear Weapons Military conflict Intelligence Sanctions
  1. The U.S. and Israel carried out major covert strikes and targeted assassinations that severely damaged Iran’s nuclear sites and military infrastructure.
  2. Iran has not launched a large-scale retaliation, but the country faces serious economic, social, and infrastructure strains that some U.S. officials say could spark a crisis or revolution.
  3. Israeli leaders believe Iran is rebuilding its defenses, and the mismatch in assessments raises the risk that another confrontation is looming.

Imran Khan: Pakistan should be non-aligned in cold war, neutral over Ukraine, applauds China

Geopolitical Economy Report • 219 implied HN points • 03 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Neutrality Alliances International relations Foreign Policy
  1. Imran Khan advocates for Pakistan to be non-aligned in cold wars, neutral in proxy conflicts, and have good relations with multiple nations like China, Russia, and the US.
  2. Khan emphasizes the importance of Pakistan maintaining neutrality in global conflicts to protect its own interests, citing the negative impacts of taking sides.
  3. Khan praises China's remarkable anti-poverty efforts and stresses the necessity of not engaging in nuclear warfare to prevent catastrophic consequences.

The Israel-Iran Air War: Destruction Vs Coercion

Phillips’s Newsletter • 100 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Military Diplomacy Geopolitics International relations
  1. Israel has gained air supremacy in the conflict, which is a notable achievement. This means they have control over the skies, which can change the dynamics of the war.
  2. The Israeli military strategy includes attacking Iranian energy production, aiming for a potential change in the Iranian government. They are trying to weaken Iran's resources and influence.
  3. Iran is responding with missile attacks against Israel. Their strategy appears to focus on retaliation and causing damage to deter further Israeli actions.

Pakistan’s Imran Khan compares his ouster to CIA coup in Iran, criticizes Western colonialism

Geopolitical Economy Report • 219 implied HN points • 02 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics Iran Sovereignty Colonialism Palestine
  1. Imran Khan compared his ouster to a CIA coup in Iran, highlighting similarities in patterns of removal of governments.
  2. Khan emphasized the importance of sovereignty for countries, criticizing reliance on aid, foreign loans, and organizations like the IMF.
  3. He criticized Western colonialism, pointing out how it led to ruling elites in developing countries placing themselves above the law and engaging in corruption.

Trudeau Demands Life In Prison For Speech Crimes

Public • 568 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Legislation Totalitarianism Censorship Human Rights
  1. Trudeau's proposed Online Harms Act aims to impose strict penalties, including life imprisonment, for speech-related offenses.
  2. Critics argue that the legislation is an extreme example of governmental overreach, setting a concerning precedent for free speech in Western societies.
  3. The bill would lead to individuals facing harsher maximum penalties for speech offenses like advocating genocide than for serious physical crimes.

This is genocide not war

Diane Francis • 819 implied HN points • 24 Feb 22
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Studies Human Rights Geopolitics War history
  1. The invasion of Ukraine is being described as genocide, highlighting the serious nature of the conflict. It shows how devastating war can be for innocent people.
  2. The global impact of the invasion marks a significant change in the world order, similar to historical events that led to conflict and suffering. This indicates a potential shift in how countries interact with each other.
  3. The date of the invasion is remembered alongside dark historical moments, signaling how important it is to recognize and learn from such events to prevent future tragedies.

In mind-blowingly hypocritical UN speech, Biden tries to rewrite history

Geopolitical Economy Report • 318 implied HN points • 22 Sep 22
🌍 World Politics International Law Russia Ukraine US Foreign Policy
  1. In a UN speech, Biden criticized Russia for 'imperial ambitions' despite his own involvement in wars like Iraq, Libya, Syria, and Afghanistan.
  2. Journalist Ben Norton fact-checked Biden's UN speech, highlighting the contradictions in his claims.
  3. The US has been involved in conflicts like the proxy war in Ukraine, with CIA training in Ukraine, showcasing complex international relations.

War in the Middle East.

Philoinvestor • 157 implied HN points • 07 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Middle East Conflict Global Influence International relations
  1. Palestinian militants crossing into Israel led to conflict escalation with rockets launched from Gaza.
  2. Internal political issues and criticism from allies like the US are creating challenges for Israel's coalition government and its policies.
  3. Regional dynamics, like China's involvement in Middle East affairs, suggest a shift in power dynamics and alliances.

What is the matter with South Africa?

An Africanist Perspective • 178 implied HN points • 30 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics Political crisis Government Corruption
  1. The promised benefits of ending apartheid in South Africa have not been realized, leading to economic and political challenges.
  2. Efforts such as Black Economic Empowerment and land redistribution programs have largely failed to address racial inequality in the country.
  3. Potential solutions for South Africa's economic rejuvenation include becoming a gateway to Africa and deregulating the informal economy to spur job creation.

The Population Bomb

Diane Francis • 439 implied HN points • 17 Nov 22
🌍 World Politics Demographics Global Issues Migration Economics Environment
  1. The world's population hit 8 billion, largely due to longer life expectancies and better health care. This brings both business opportunities and environmental challenges.
  2. Population growth is expected to slow down significantly in the coming decades, influenced by factors like women's education and lower fertility rates. Many countries are facing issues related to aging populations and shrinking workforces.
  3. Countries like Japan and Germany show that a declining population can still lead to economic success, especially when they invest in automation and embrace environmental sustainability.

The Infanticide That Won't End

The Weekly Dish • 101 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict International relations Middle East Human Rights Security
  1. The ongoing conflict in Gaza is causing harm to both sides involved. It seems like a never-ending cycle of violence.
  2. Many believe that escalating the war will have negative consequences for Israel in the long run. It might lead to more suffering and less security.
  3. It's important to find a peaceful solution instead of continuing the fight. Stopping the violence could help create a better future for everyone.

The U.S. loves sending secretive "objects" into other countries

Matthew's Notebook • 157 implied HN points • 14 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics Military Global relations National Security Foreign Policy Crisis Management
  1. The U.S. has a history of sending secretive objects into other countries that can lead to serious international crises.
  2. American responses to foreign intrusions may sometimes be perceived as overreactions by experts.
  3. Reflection on U.S. actions towards weaker nations is necessary, especially in the context of past incidents like the Cuban missile crisis and recent tensions with Iran and China.

Global Biosecurity in the Age of Low-Probability, High-Consequence (LPHC) Biological Risks-

Who is Robert Malone • 5 implied HN points • 29 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Biosecurity Global Governance Arms Control Public Health Biotechnology International Law
  1. Current international biosecurity rules strongly ban biological weapons but are institutionally weak and fragmented. They lack verification, enforcement, and do not cover accidental, dual‑use, or self‑propagating risks.
  2. Low‑probability, high‑consequence biological risks often fall outside existing treaties and can produce irreversible, cross‑border harms. Managing these risks requires proactive international coordination, shared norms, and continuous risk monitoring rather than only national or reactive responses.
  3. The global framework must shift from mere prohibition to collective risk management by adding verification, common biosafety standards, transparency, and worst‑case preparedness. Strengthening these elements would help align biotechnology innovation with safety and reduce the chance of catastrophic global events.

Wakanda isn't an ideal utopia for Africa

The Novelleist • 575 implied HN points • 21 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Africa Natural resources Economic Development Poverty Corruption
  1. Wakanda in Black Panther is a positive portrayal of African prosperity with advanced technology, boosting pride and dignity.
  2. The economic model of Wakanda, relying on a magical substance for wealth, ignores the realities of gradual economic development involving valuable goods and services.
  3. The obsession with natural resources as a source of wealth can hinder economic growth due to corruption, lack of policy improvements, and misinformation about their true benefits.