The hottest Conflict Studies Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics
Diane Francis β€’ 179 implied HN points β€’ 30 May 24
  1. China is closely watching the outcome of the war in Russia. They may have plans to reclaim territories they lost in the past.
  2. If Russia faces significant changes in leadership, it could lead to instability across its vast territory.
  3. The historical claim over areas like Manchuria could become a priority for China if Russia weakens.
Diane Francis β€’ 1159 implied HN points β€’ 07 Aug 23
  1. A recent meeting in Jeddah with global leaders, excluding Russia, highlighted the widespread recognition of Russia's aggressive role in the Ukraine war.
  2. Putin's actions have severe consequences beyond Ukraine, affecting global food and energy supply, and creating instability in other regions, especially Africa.
  3. The meeting served as a crucial step for countries to come together to stop Putin, showing that this war is not just a regional issue but a global problem that needs collaboration to solve.
Phillips’s Newsletter β€’ 83 implied HN points β€’ 05 Dec 24
  1. European countries need to carefully consider their actions in the ongoing Ukraine war. Their support is crucial and impacts the situation significantly.
  2. The Trump administration's plans for Ukraine lack solid security guarantees. This may put European states in a tough spot, as they might have to back plans that don't benefit them or Ukraine.
  3. Many of Trump's proposed peace plans for Ukraine have been evident for a while. Understanding these plans early can help Europe prepare for possible outcomes.
Diane Francis β€’ 979 implied HN points β€’ 07 Sep 23
  1. Ukraine has shown remarkable resilience and innovation in its war against Russia, using advanced technology and a strong community spirit. They are known for developing new weapons like drones that give them an edge despite being outnumbered.
  2. The country boasts a high level of education and has a large number of skilled engineers and IT workers. This expertise helps Ukraine to build and adapt technology quickly to support their military efforts.
  3. Ukraine is transforming how wars are fought with smart tech and creativity. Their approach, including using civilian resources and tech teams, has changed the battlefield and shocked their adversaries.
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Glenn’s Substack β€’ 119 implied HN points β€’ 10 Jun 24
  1. NATO's actions are escalating tensions, which could lead to war. It's important to understand how military alliances affect global peace.
  2. Propaganda plays a big role in shaping public opinion about war. People need to be critical of the information they receive.
  3. Dialogue and conversation are crucial to prevent misunderstandings. Clear communication can help avoid unnecessary conflict.
Diane Francis β€’ 939 implied HN points β€’ 31 Jul 23
  1. Wagner, a private military group, is a key part of Putin's strategy and makes a lot of money from warfare and operations around the world.
  2. Putin uses Wagner not just for military actions but also to gain influence and control over resources in African countries, often through illegal means.
  3. Despite issues in Ukraine, Putin remains strong because of his partnerships and the ongoing power of groups like Wagner in the global landscape.
Diane Francis β€’ 1059 implied HN points β€’ 22 Jun 23
  1. The Russia-Ukraine War may lead to the breakup of Russia, similar to the Soviet-Afghanistan War. Russia is losing allies and financial resources, which could cause some regions to want independence.
  2. China has a significant interest in the resource-rich areas of Russia, especially Manchuria, which used to belong to China. As Russia weakens, China might look to reclaim these lands, boosting its own economy.
  3. The partnership between China and Russia is changing. China is distancing itself from Russia after the Ukraine invasion and is cautiously moving towards the West, showing it might not support Russia like before.
Diane Francis β€’ 1019 implied HN points β€’ 29 Jun 23
  1. Putin is facing serious challenges to his power after a failed mutiny, showing that his grip on Russia is weakening. Many in his inner circle are worried and uncertain about his leadership.
  2. The oligarchs and elites in Russia are tired of the ongoing war and its negative impact on their businesses. They might push for a change in leadership or a shift in strategy to stabilize the country.
  3. There is potential for a new administration of moderates to emerge, which could lead to negotiations to end the war in Ukraine and help rebuild Russia.
Diane Francis β€’ 779 implied HN points β€’ 14 Aug 23
  1. South Korea has increased its support for Ukraine, marking a significant shift in its international stance. This is partly due to South Korea's own history of being affected by Russian aggression during the Korean War.
  2. The country has been exporting military supplies to Ukraine and is officially joining its alliance, showcasing its readiness to confront threats from North Korea and Russia.
  3. A South Korean soldier, Sgt Kim Jae-kyung, has actively campaigned for support of Ukraine, reminding people that South Korea received help from many nations in its own time of need.
Glenn’s Substack β€’ 99 implied HN points β€’ 10 Jun 24
  1. The liberal international order is in decline, which means the traditional alliances and cooperation among countries are weakening. This shift is leading to more competition between powerful nations.
  2. The situation in Ukraine has escalated, showing how tensions between countries are rising and affecting global stability. This is a sign that countries are prioritizing their own interests over collaboration.
  3. The future of US-European relations is uncertain as old partnerships are tested. There's a growing need for these nations to rethink their strategies for dealing with one another and the new world dynamics.
Phillips’s Newsletter β€’ 86 implied HN points β€’ 29 Oct 24
  1. North Korean troops are now confirmed to be fighting for Russia in Ukraine. This development shows the lengths Russia is going to in order to sustain its military efforts.
  2. While Ukraine’s allies seem uncertain about how to best support them, Putin is making bold moves, like bringing in North Koreans, to try and gain an advantage.
  3. Putin’s decisions can often backfire. For instance, his direct attacks in the Kharkiv offensive were seen as strategic mistakes that did not pay off.
Diane Francis β€’ 619 implied HN points β€’ 10 Apr 23
  1. Putin's rule in Russia is marked by extreme paranoia and violence, with rival factions forming amid fears of losing power. Assassination and other brutal tactics are used to silence opposition.
  2. A variety of illegal armed groups are emerging, each with their own goals, some wanting to overthrow Putin and others preparing for chaos after his rule. This shows a deep divide among the elite and a potential shift in power.
  3. Political dynamics in Russia are changing, with increasing challenges to Putin's authority. Historical patterns suggest that if he loses a war or power, he could be replaced through backdoor negotiations or even force.
Diane Francis β€’ 699 implied HN points β€’ 26 Jan 23
  1. Poland has shown strong leadership in Europe, especially in helping Ukraine against Russia. They have taken in millions of Ukrainian refugees and provided military aid.
  2. Germany and other major European countries have lagged in their response to Russian aggression, while Poland has been vocal and proactive. Poland has encouraged other nations to provide more support to Ukraine.
  3. Poland's commitment to helping Ukraine highlights a shift in moral leadership in Europe, moving from traditional powers to smaller nations like Poland and Ukraine.
Diane Francis β€’ 1039 implied HN points β€’ 15 Aug 22
  1. Yellow ribbons in Kherson show resistance against Russian control and upcoming fake votes for annexation. Many residents are defying Russian authority despite risks of jail or worse.
  2. Russia is staging referenda in occupied regions like Kherson and Zaporizhzhia to legitimize their claims while fighting continues. Ukraine's President says no talks will happen if these votes occur.
  3. Ukrainians remain hopeful about winning the war, with a strong desire to reclaim all their territories, including Crimea. Many reject ideas of surrendering or compromising with Russia.
Diane Francis β€’ 919 implied HN points β€’ 15 Sep 22
  1. China has distanced itself from Russia, especially after Putin's struggles in Ukraine. Xi Jinping assured Kazakhstan of support against potential Russian threats, showing he won't back Putin's aggressive moves.
  2. While China signed a partnership with Russia, it has not openly supported the war in Ukraine. Instead, China wants to keep good relations with Europe and the U.S., which means they won't provide military aid to Russia.
  3. Many Central Asian countries are growing closer to China while pulling away from Russia. As Russia's situation worsens, Beijing may look to expand its influence in regions previously dominated by Moscow.
Diane Francis β€’ 679 implied HN points β€’ 14 Nov 22
  1. Ukraine's recapture of Kherson shows they are strong and determined to push Russian forces out. This event has shifted the balance in the war and increased support from Western nations.
  2. The conflict has exposed Russia's weaknesses and united many countries against its aggression. This unity may change the geopolitical landscape and weaken Russia's influence worldwide.
  3. A peaceful resolution might not be possible now, as Ukraine wants to restore its borders completely. They are ready to continue fighting to ensure a future without Russian threats.
Diane Francis β€’ 599 implied HN points β€’ 19 Dec 22
  1. Negotiating with Putin is unlikely to lead to peace because he views the conflict as a way to regain control over Ukraine. A better approach is to intensify military efforts until he is defeated.
  2. Ukraine's recent successful strikes show its growing military capabilities and challenge Russia's strength, but some leaders are still pushing for negotiations, which might encourage Putin rather than stop him.
  3. History shows that wars typically end with one side defeated, not through friendly negotiations. Ukraine needs strong military support to secure its territories and ensure lasting peace.
Diane Francis β€’ 519 implied HN points β€’ 09 Jan 23
  1. Yevgeny Prigozhin is a strong contender to succeed Putin because he controls the Wagner Group and has gained wealth during the war. He’s known for being close to Putin and has military influence, which sets him apart from other political figures.
  2. Prigozhin's Wagner Group has been involved in brutal actions, including recruiting prisoners to fight in Ukraine and executing deserters. This shows how ruthless and powerful his group is within Russia's conflict landscape.
  3. After Putin, Russia might face a chaotic power struggle with various factions vying for control. This could lead to political infighting and disintegration, similar to past historical events in Russian history.
John’s Substack β€’ 10 implied HN points β€’ 21 Dec 24
  1. Putin is seen as directly challenging Western countries, hinting at a serious conflict. This creates tension and uncertainty in international relations.
  2. There's a focus on the situation in Ukraine, highlighting ongoing concerns and unsettling discussions about war.
  3. The dialogue around these issues feels bleak, suggesting that problems are expected to persist into the future.
steigan.no β€’ 8 implied HN points β€’ 01 Jan 25
  1. Biden has ordered more weapons to be sent to Ukraine in response to a major Russian attack. This decision came after Russia targeted Ukrainian energy infrastructure.
  2. Foreign jihadists have been appointed to senior positions in the new Syrian military. This includes members from various nationalities, indicating a shift in military leadership.
  3. Ukraine has ended its gas transit through Ukraine, raising concerns about energy problems in Europe. This decision could lead to higher energy costs for European countries that rely on this transit.
Diane Francis β€’ 819 implied HN points β€’ 24 Feb 22
  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.
The Cosmopolitan Globalist β€’ 4 implied HN points β€’ 04 Jan 25
  1. There are technical issues with Quiz B that some readers have experienced. The author is trying to understand the errors and how to fix them.
  2. New subscribers are welcomed and appreciated like special guests. The author wants to ensure they have a great experience.
  3. There is curiosity about reader engagement with the quizzes, and the author is questioning whether readers understood the instructions properly.
John’s Substack β€’ 10 implied HN points β€’ 10 Dec 24
  1. Alexander Dugin is a major thinker in Russia and is considered influential in Russian politics, often linked to Putin.
  2. He has strong opinions on many topics, particularly the Ukraine war, and is known for being a controversial figure in the West.
  3. Dugin's ideas are complex and well-developed, and whether people agree with him or not, his work is likely to have a lasting impact.
Diane Francis β€’ 739 implied HN points β€’ 21 Feb 22
  1. To stop a threat like Russia, action is more effective than just threats. Doing nothing can encourage more aggression.
  2. It’s important to take decisive steps to protect oneself against danger. Just talking about it won't keep anyone safe.
  3. The situation with Russia requires strong and meaningful responses to prevent further attacks or issues. This includes showing that there will be consequences for aggressive behavior.
Diane Francis β€’ 699 implied HN points β€’ 25 Feb 22
  1. Russia attacked Ukraine after a long period of threats. It shows that waiting for sanctions isn't enough to deter aggression.
  2. The friends of Ukraine did not step in to help when needed. This highlights the criticism of how the West responds to threats.
  3. Strong responses, like military support, are necessary to confront aggressors. Simply issuing threats won't protect allies effectively.
Diane Francis β€’ 659 implied HN points β€’ 27 Feb 22
  1. Germany has a history of making poor choices that negatively impact global affairs. This includes decisions from the previous century that still resonate today.
  2. The country has been criticized for not confronting or holding Russia accountable for its actions. Many believe this attitude shows a lack of strength.
  3. Germany's choice to depend heavily on Russian energy sources has raised concerns, especially during times of geopolitical tension. This dependency is seen as a risky move for the future.
John’s Substack β€’ 12 implied HN points β€’ 24 Nov 24
  1. The situation in Ukraine is very serious and there is a sense of urgency. Many people are feeling desperate as the conflict continues.
  2. The Biden Administration's actions in Ukraine are being closely examined. There are concerns about how these decisions may affect the future of the country.
  3. Conversations around the conflict reveal a lot of different opinions and predictions. It's important to stay informed and understand the different perspectives involved.
John’s Substack β€’ 7 implied HN points β€’ 16 Dec 24
  1. Syria is in a chaotic state, and understanding its situation is complex. The podcast discusses the past events and potential future of the country.
  2. The conversation focuses on the impact of the fall of Assad and what that means for the region. It's important to consider how this could change politics and stability.
  3. Experts are trying to analyze the broader implications of the Syrian conflict. This includes looking at how the situation affects neighboring countries and global politics.
John’s Substack β€’ 7 implied HN points β€’ 12 Dec 24
  1. The discussion focused on the situation in Syria and its implications for Russia. It highlighted the interconnectedness of global events and how they impact each other.
  2. Understanding the dynamics in Syria can provide insights into Russia's strategies and motivations in the region.
  3. The conversation emphasized the importance of analyzing these geopolitical issues for a better grasp of current international relations.
Diane Francis β€’ 459 implied HN points β€’ 31 Mar 22
  1. Russia is being described as a criminal organization driven by a passionate leader. They seem focused on taking control of parts of Ukraine.
  2. The message emphasizes the need for a strong response to aggression, implying that weakness won't lead to good outcomes.
  3. There's a sense that the situation calls for serious commitment and action, rather than avoiding tough choices.
Pekingnology β€’ 41 implied HN points β€’ 19 Oct 24
  1. China has not set clear rules against foreign military activities in the South China Sea, allowing various countries to operate freely within international law.
  2. The South China Sea is a major route for global trade, with many merchant ships and aircraft passing through, showing that both military and civilian activities coexist in the area.
  3. Despite ongoing disputes between nations over specific territories, the overall freedom of navigation and flight remains intact, and most tensions are managed without significant disruption to commercial passage.
C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. β€’ 12 implied HN points β€’ 19 Oct 24
  1. Russia's navy is now in Iranian ports, which could shift power dynamics between the US, Israel, and Iran. This move shows Russia's growing influence in the region.
  2. There's a shift towards a multi-polar world where countries are moving away from being controlled by US financial power. This means other countries are taking more control over trade and diplomacy.
  3. Many American business leaders want a break from constant wars and military influence. There's a belief that the public will soon push back against the political and corporate systems controlling elections.
Diane Francis β€’ 459 implied HN points β€’ 07 Jan 22
  1. Kazakhstan is a large country in Central Asia with rich natural resources. This makes it an important location for global politics.
  2. Recently, Russia sent troops to Kazakhstan, increasing tensions in the region. This move has raised concerns about Kazakhstan's independence.
  3. The situation in Kazakhstan could affect many other countries, as it's a key player in energy supplies and regional stability.
steigan.no β€’ 4 implied HN points β€’ 26 Dec 24
  1. Kenya is facing increasing poverty, with a growing divide between the rich and the poor. Many locals struggle financially while tourists enjoy the luxury.
  2. The political landscape in Kenya is complicated, with concerns about corruption among leaders and a lack of clear political direction. People are wary of elections due to past violence.
  3. Tourism is vital for Kenya's economy, but recent crises have decreased visitor numbers. The country struggles to balance maintaining tourist attractions while addressing economic challenges for residents.
Diane Francis β€’ 359 implied HN points β€’ 09 Mar 22
  1. A Russian whistleblower claims that the war in Ukraine is struggling and many Russian soldiers have been killed. This shows the seriousness of the conflict and the toll it is taking.
  2. The whistleblower warns that Putin might use nuclear threats to control the situation. This raises fears about the safety and future of the region.
  3. One post suggests the possibility of a small nuclear strike in Ukraine, but not for military reasons. This highlights the unpredictable and dangerous nature of the current conflict.
Diane Francis β€’ 379 implied HN points β€’ 31 Jan 22
  1. The United Nations Security Council is having a very important meeting, the biggest since the Cuban Missile Crisis. This shows how serious the situation is right now.
  2. The United States is pushing to label Russia as an 'aggressor state'. They want to discuss sanctions against Russia and even consider kicking them out of the UN.
  3. This emergency session highlights the tension in global politics and how countries are trying to respond to conflicts. It is a critical moment for international relations.
John’s Substack β€’ 9 implied HN points β€’ 02 Nov 24
  1. Realism is a theory that helps us understand global conflicts by focusing on power and national interest.
  2. The essence of realism suggests that states prioritize their security and survival in an anarchic international system.
  3. In a discussion about realism, it's important to consider how it can be applied to current events and major global issues.