The hottest Conflict Studies Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

The Gaza Riviera

The Chris Hedges Report • 485 implied HN points • 26 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conflict Studies
  1. Many people in Israel don’t see the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza as a serious issue. They view the violence as justified and even exciting.
  2. The systematic destruction and starvation of Gaza are seen by some leaders as a path to building a new society without Palestinians. This idea is compared to historical genocides.
  3. The reality of starvation and its impacts on health are devastating. Millions are at risk, and the urgent need for humanitarian aid is overwhelming.

Ukrainian Exceptionalism

Diane Francis • 979 implied HN points • 07 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  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.

NATO Escalation & Propaganda Take Us to War

Glenn’s Substack • 119 implied HN points • 10 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  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.

Putin Weaker? Nyet

Diane Francis • 939 implied HN points • 31 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  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.

China's Russia

Diane Francis • 1059 implied HN points • 22 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  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.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Vlad the Terrible

Diane Francis • 1019 implied HN points • 29 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  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.

South Korea Steps Up

Diane Francis • 779 implied HN points • 14 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  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.

The Demise of the Liberal International Order and the Return of Great Power Rivalry

Glenn’s Substack • 99 implied HN points • 10 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  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.

Appeasement at Munich

Thinking about... • 775 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  1. History shows that appeasing aggressors can lead to greater conflicts. Just like in 1938, giving in can make things worse in the long run.
  2. Ukraine’s resistance has changed the situation. By fighting back, they have prevented further aggression and have kept a major conflict from escalating.
  3. If the U.S. supports appeasement, it risks creating a stronger aggressor. A Russian victory over Ukraine could lead to more wars and even nuclear threats in the future.

Top Links 761 The limits of China's domestic market. Gold digging in Syria. African drone poliferation & the making of Balamory.

Chartbook • 343 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  1. China's domestic market has limitations that affect its overall economic growth. Understanding these limits can help us see potential challenges for China's future.
  2. There is ongoing gold mining in Syria, which raises questions about the human and environmental cost. It's important to be aware of the impacts of such activities in conflict zones.
  3. African countries are increasingly using drones, which could change security dynamics on the continent. This shift might lead to both opportunities and risks for the region.

Who speaks of the Armenians?

Wrong Side of History • 731 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  1. The Armenian genocide in 1915-1917 is often overlooked, despite its horrific nature. Many Armenians fear that the hatred from that time still exists, leading to more violence.
  2. The conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan has roots in historical tensions, but it intensified with recent wars over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Many civilians have suffered and been forced to flee.
  3. Azerbaijan has significant oil and gas resources that influence its global relationships, often overshadowing its human rights abuses. Western countries continue to engage with Baku for energy supplies, ignoring its actions against Armenians.

Russia's Game of Thrones

Diane Francis • 619 implied HN points • 10 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  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.

So Trump Bombed Iran--Thankfully, Wars Always End In A Day

Phillips’s Newsletter • 209 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conflict Studies
  1. Wars often start with a lot of uncertainty. It's hard to predict how a conflict will play out in the long run and what the actual outcomes will be.
  2. The idea of a quick and easy victory in war is often an illusion. Even successful military campaigns can lead to ongoing problems and complications.
  3. Some people who criticized military interventions in the past may flip their stance if the leadership changes. This shows how political views can shift based on who is in power.

On Gaza

Kvetch • 147 implied HN points • 27 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conflict Studies
  1. The conflict between Israel and Gaza has deep historical roots and complex dynamics, with hostility from both sides persisting for decades.
  2. Terms like 'genocide' and 'ethnic cleansing' can be misleading and distract from the actual situation on the ground; context and outcomes matter more.
  3. There is a need for a new approach to resolve the conflict because past efforts have often led to greater violence and suffering.

Poland's Moral Leadership

Diane Francis • 699 implied HN points • 26 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  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.

Russia's 9/11

Diane Francis • 1039 implied HN points • 15 Aug 22
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  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.

China Isolates Russia

Diane Francis • 919 implied HN points • 15 Sep 22
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  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.

Ukraine's New World Order

Diane Francis • 679 implied HN points • 14 Nov 22
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  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.

Nuremberg not Negotiations

Diane Francis • 599 implied HN points • 19 Dec 22
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  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.

Putin's Dark Prince

Diane Francis • 519 implied HN points • 09 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  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.

Putin’s Narrative Power

Comment is Freed • 117 implied HN points • 06 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  1. Vladimir Putin continues the war in Ukraine despite not achieving his goals. His stubbornness is driven by a need to avoid humiliation.
  2. Russia's military and political objectives are unrealistic, as they require a neutralized Ukraine, but they are far from reaching them.
  3. Even with some territorial gains, Russia occupies less land now than at the start of the war, and Ukraine has grown stronger and more prepared for defense.

Iran, Israel, USA and World War 3 | Chris Hedges | UNAPOLOGETIC

The Chris Hedges Report • 125 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  1. The conflict between Israel and Iran could have serious consequences, including the risk of drawing the USA into a larger war.
  2. There are concerns about whether the shifting priorities of Israel and the Pentagon are genuine or just a cover for ongoing issues in the region.
  3. The actions of Arab states in response to the situation may lead to negative consequences for them in the future.

Zelensky under fire, Israel attacks Syria, Russiagate revealed

Aaron Mate • 102 implied HN points • 24 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conflict Studies
  1. There are protests in Ukraine against President Zelensky. People are unhappy with his leadership and are voicing their concerns.
  2. Israel has been attacking Syria amidst ongoing violence and sectarian issues in the region. This shows the complex and dangerous situation in that area.
  3. New revelations about the Russiagate scandal are coming to light. These developments help clarify past events and their implications.

Top Links 553 Wrangling over lithography machines. Thai coups. Power plays in Vietnam & the collapsing Lao state.

Chartbook • 314 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  1. There is ongoing competition and negotiation regarding lithography machines, which are crucial for semiconductor manufacturing. This shows how technology is tied to global power dynamics.
  2. Recent political changes, like coups in Thailand, highlight instability in the region. Such events can shift the balance of power and affect international relations.
  3. Vietnam's power struggles and the crisis in Laos indicate significant challenges in governance and stability in Southeast Asia. These issues impact the lives of many people in these countries.

Israel’s Forever War

Comment is Freed • 77 implied HN points • 06 Aug 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  1. Israel's need for peace with the Palestinians is crucial, especially after decades of conflict. Various leaders have tried to address this issue, but lasting solutions have proven hard to achieve.
  2. The recognition of a Palestinian state is becoming more accepted internationally, reflecting a desire for resolution in the region. However, the path to achieving this remains uncertain.
  3. Current Israeli leadership is at risk of increasing isolation, as they avoid negotiations with Palestinians. Without dialogue, finding a stable solution will be very difficult.

This is genocide not war

Diane Francis • 819 implied HN points • 24 Feb 22
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  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.

Israel attacks Iran

Comment is Freed • 97 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  1. Israel has launched serious attacks on Iran's nuclear program, leaving Iran unsure of how to respond. This attack seems to be more than just a bluff.
  2. The outcome of the situation heavily depends on the US's reaction. Without US support, Israel may struggle to achieve its goals.
  3. Iran might hold back its retaliation to avoid escalating conflict and dragging the US into the situation, especially as its own position has weakened over the years.

The US is no longer our ally

Erik Examines • 179 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  1. The US is seen by some as no longer being a reliable ally, with divisions in its political landscape affecting international relationships. This raises concerns about how the US approaches foreign policy and engages with other countries.
  2. There's a belief that the US government is siding with far-right movements in Europe and challenging democratic norms. This shift is viewed as a significant change from past US leadership which was more aligned with traditional allies.
  3. Historical parallels are drawn to past aggressive actions by leaders, showing a worry that current US politics might lead to similar conflicts. Many people prefer to cling to the familiar, but change is coming whether they like it or not.

The Angels of Ukraine: Profiles in Civic Heroism

The Save Journalism Committee • 216 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  1. In times of war, many people step up to help others, showing incredible empathy and courage. These volunteers are often called 'Angels' because they help those in need during tough times.
  2. Some individuals create organizations to address specific gaps in aid, like distributing medicines and supplies when official relief programs fall short. They find ways to be effective and make a real difference without big budgets.
  3. Many families are greatly impacted by war, and some take personal responsibility by fostering or adopting children in need. Their stories show the strength of community, love, and resilience in difficult situations.

Cripple Russia Now

Diane Francis • 739 implied HN points • 21 Feb 22
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  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.

The West Wimps Out

Diane Francis • 699 implied HN points • 25 Feb 22
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  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.

Weapons of Mass Destruction

Diane Francis • 679 implied HN points • 28 Feb 22
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  1. Russia's military strategy is facing challenges in Ukraine, leading to a shake-up in its leadership.
  2. Putin has heightened the alert status of his nuclear forces as tensions rise.
  3. The U.S. government reassured that Russia is not under immediate threat while criticizing Putin's actions.

Arab Regimes and the Betrayal of Palestine (w/ Farah El-Sharif) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 159 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  1. Many Muslim leaders prioritize their relationships with Western powers over their own people, leading to betrayal, especially regarding Palestine. This often results in silence or complicity in the face of violence against their communities.
  2. The oppression faced by Muslim communities is deeply tied to colonial and imperial actions, which continues to create divisions and reap devastation across the region. The struggle in Gaza highlights the extent of this systemic injustice.
  3. Young Muslims are seeking strong, moral leadership that stands for justice and integrity. They feel disillusioned by leaders who fail to uphold these values, and they are inspired to look to historical figures who embodied true resistance.

Germany's Wrongdoing

Diane Francis • 659 implied HN points • 27 Feb 22
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  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.

"Putin has a very thin skin..."

Comment is Freed • 58 implied HN points • 30 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  1. Having external reviewers in a defense review process can provide fresh and honest perspectives, which might lead to more innovative solutions. It's better than just relying on internal opinions.
  2. Securing more funding for defense is crucial, and it's important to project future financial needs to avoid making tough cuts later. Having clear budgets helps planning and capability development.
  3. Feeling pressure from various departments is common, especially when trying to implement significant changes. It's essential to navigate these dynamics carefully to achieve the best outcomes.

My Geopolitical Prediction of What's to Come

Tessa Fights Robots • 49 implied HN points • 03 Aug 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  1. There may be plans for more conflict in the Middle East, indicating a volatile situation ahead. It's important to stay aware of global events as they can impact many lives.
  2. The idea of 'Project Israel' could be changing, suggesting major shifts in regional politics and alliances. These changes might lead to significant consequences for the people living there.
  3. The predictions come with a focus on the emotional and spiritual aspects of these geopolitical shifts. Understanding these impacts can help people cope with potential future chaos.

Wang Jisi on The Relationship Between National Security and Other National Objectives

Pekingnology • 64 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Studies
  1. National security is very important, but it needs limits. We should not let the pursuit of security take away freedom and wealth.
  2. Economic growth helps improve security, but too fast growth can cause unrest, especially in poorer countries. It's important for nations to balance growth and stability.
  3. The resources a country spends on military don't always equal better security. There are complex factors at play that influence how safe a nation really is.