The hottest Conflict Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

Siberia

Diane Francis • 539 implied HN points • 07 Feb 22
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin met during the Beijing Winter Olympics to discuss their stance against NATO's expansion. They are wary of NATO and want to strengthen their partnership.
  2. Their joint statement was long and detailed, showing they are serious about their alliance. However, Xi did not fully endorse everything Putin does.
  3. The meeting highlights the growing relationship between Russia and China, especially as both face challenges from the West. They aim to support each other in various ways.

The apocalypse we choose

Thinking about... • 350 implied HN points • 03 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Mike Johnson's actions as Speaker of the House are enabling Russian aggression in Ukraine and risking turning the world towards tyranny
  2. Ukrainian resistance is crucial in halting genocide and preventing nuclear proliferation
  3. American assistance to Ukraine is essential in supporting democracy, preventing catastrophe, and maintaining global stability

The War on Terror and the everyday infrastructure of oblivion

Wars Of Future Past • 98 implied HN points • 20 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Cars, which are part of our daily lives, can also be turned into deadly weapons like car bombs.
  2. The book 'Buda's Wagon' delves into the history and evolution of car bombs, showing how they have been used as tools of asymmetrical warfare.
  3. The use of car bombs highlights the intersection of everyday technologies with violent intentions, shaping the tactics of conflicts and the consequences of warfare.

Those who can't do, train

Discomfort zone • 98 implied HN points • 18 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Foreign aid often assumes others do things wrong and need training from the West.
  2. Western military strategies may not work in all conflicts, even with training.
  3. The emphasis on training in foreign aid can be inefficient, wasteful, and not always effective.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

The Sacred Wound

Jyri And • 39 implied HN points • 23 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Conflict
  1. Sometimes, a fight can feel like a big deal, but it can also show us our limits and what we're truly willing to face. In this story, the fight led to an important lesson about standing up for oneself.
  2. Giving up isn't always a sign of weakness. It can be a way to let things go and move on from a situation that feels too heavy to handle.
  3. Our struggles can lead us to better paths in life. Even when things seem tough, they can guide us to discover who we really are and what we want to do.

Calling Vlad's Bluff

Diane Francis • 519 implied HN points • 13 Jan 22
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Many people are not worried about the possible Russian invasion of Ukraine because they have other pressing issues, like rising gas prices and COVID-19. It shows how different countries prioritize their concerns.
  2. In Western Europe, there is a strong sense of disbelief about Putin's actions due to the trauma from past world wars. This reflects a hesitant attitude towards viewing Russia as a real threat.
  3. The idea that Russia is engaging in a 'slow-motion hybrid war' is becoming more accepted, but not everyone sees it as a significant danger yet. People seem to underplay the risks involved.

Genocide as Colonial Erasure (w/ Francesca Albanese) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 161 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conflict
  1. Genocide is recognized as a process, and many actions taken against the Palestinian people, including mass killings and forced displacement, indicate a systematic effort to destroy them as a group.
  2. The situation in both Gaza and the West Bank shows a deteriorating humanitarian crisis, with conditions worsening and acts of violence against Palestinians increasing significantly over time.
  3. International responses, including arms embargos and legal actions, are crucial to address ongoing violence and prevent further genocide; the failure to halt these actions raises concerns about global accountability and respect for human rights.

Ukraine abandoned, Gaza destroyed

Aaron Mate • 166 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. The situation in Gaza is getting worse due to ongoing destruction from Israel.
  2. Ukraine is facing neglect, with calls for younger soldiers to take more risks in the conflict.
  3. There's a contrast between the struggles of Gaza and Ukraine, highlighting a lack of support for both regions.

As US floats revival of Istanbul talks, Zelensky and Starmer scramble

Aaron Mate • 100 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. The US is considering restarting peace talks that were previously halted in Istanbul. This might open new discussions about resolving tensions.
  2. Zelensky and Starmer are actively trying to persuade Trump to support continued military action. They appear to be concerned about losing momentum in their efforts.
  3. The situation is dynamic as different leaders are scrambling to respond to changes in the political landscape. This could impact international relations significantly.

No, Winning a War Isn't "Genocide"

American Dreaming • 323 implied HN points • 26 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Many young people hold misconceptions about Israel and the Holocaust, with a significant percentage believing in false narratives.
  2. There is a growing disconnect between the perception of 'genocide' and the reality of Israel's actions in the war with Hamas.
  3. Israel's military actions, while criticized as disproportionate by some, are viewed by many as necessary for self-defense and preserving their nation.

Putin's Endgame

Diane Francis • 439 implied HN points • 03 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Putin thought his invasion of Ukraine would be quick, expecting to capture Kyiv in just two days.
  2. Ukrainians are fighting back fiercely, motivated by the belief that they face a threat to their existence.
  3. Putin's actions and remarks have fueled strong resistance from the Ukrainian people, showing the unexpected outcome of his plans.

Weekend Update #107: Some Leaders Wants to Tell Ukraine What Peace Means for Ukraine

Phillips’s Newsletter • 147 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conflict
  1. Some leaders are trying to negotiate peace for Ukraine without actually involving Ukrainians. This approach can weaken Ukraine's position and undermine their needs.
  2. There are three types of people in Trump's potential cabinet regarding Ukraine: those who support it, those who have flipped to anti-Ukraine views, and those who have always opposed it. This could affect future U.S. support for Ukraine.
  3. Russia's economy is struggling and might face more problems in 2025. If Ukraine stays supported by its allies, it could win the war, but it will need that help to get through.

EU calls China and Russia ‘threats’ in ‘war for the future of the entire world’

Geopolitical Economy Report • 159 implied HN points • 14 Oct 22
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. European Union leader Ursula von der Leyen sees China and Russia as global threats to Western hegemony, and is working to weaken their influence and expand EU power.
  2. The EU is implementing a Global Gateway investment program to challenge China's Belt and Road Initiative and secure natural resources for renewable energy technologies.
  3. Von der Leyen highlights the strengthening of the transatlantic bond through increased US energy imports, emphasizing the reduction of European reliance on Russian fossil fuels.

Letter to the Children of Gaza

The Chris Hedges Report • 380 implied HN points • 08 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Children in Gaza experience the horrors of war in their daily lives, with bombings, destruction, and death surrounding them.
  2. Foreign reporters are trying to shed light on the situation in Gaza and advocate for peace to end the suffering of the children.
  3. The hope is for a future where the children of Gaza can grow up in safety, freedom, and without the fear of violence.

Hamas counter-proposal

Bad News • 39 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Hamas responded to Israel's hostage-exchange proposal with their own counter-proposal.
  2. The Hamas proposal includes three ceasefires of 45 days each.
  3. To read more, a 7-day free trial is available on Ryan Grim's page.

For Some Ukrainians, Russian Language Triggers Trauma Response

Natto Thoughts • 79 implied HN points • 18 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. The coexistence of Ukrainian and Russian languages reflects a historical colonial relationship between Russia and Ukraine, where bilingualism now gives Ukrainians an edge in understanding Russian aggressors.
  2. The Russian language has become triggering for some Ukrainians due to traumatic experiences during the ongoing conflict, leading to a shift away from using Russian in favor of embracing Ukrainian identity.
  3. Attitudes towards language in Ukraine are complex, with a growing support for the Ukrainian language and a nuanced approach that includes both Ukrainian and Russian speakers promoting Ukrainian in public life for a more inclusive civic definition of Ukrainian identity.

What's in a name?

The Outpost • 78 implied HN points • 19 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Contractors in Ukraine earn higher pay compared to other dangerous areas.
  2. Employers in Ukraine seek veterans with combat experience.
  3. Ukraine has become a training ground for soldiers of fortune, impacting its governance and demographics.

The Work of Getting Yours Before You Get Got

Oliver Bateman Does the Work • 78 implied HN points • 04 Oct 23
📰 News Conflict
  1. Lessons from conflicts in small businesses can reveal the risks of mixing business with trust.
  2. The story of Max Blumenthal and Ben Norton highlights common challenges in the world of online news and politics startups.
  3. Consider supporting reader-backed publications to stay informed and fund the work of independent creators.

Pakistan coup regime bans Imran Khan, dissidents killed, as US eyes China ties, Israel normalization

Geopolitical Economy Report • 139 implied HN points • 26 Oct 22
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Pakistan's military-dominated regime, with US backing, banned former PM Imran Khan from office causing protests.
  2. The US is pressuring Pakistan to weaken ties with China, arm Ukraine, and recognize Israel, following the coup.
  3. The unelected coup regime in Pakistan is seeking a strategic partnership with the US, potentially softening relations with China.

Driving A Tank Through Our Climate Budget

Surfing the Future • 39 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Cutting climate spending to boost defense budgets can have negative consequences on addressing the climate and sustainability agenda.
  2. There is a growing concern about new levels of conflict fueled by cyberwarfare and genetic weapons, requiring more engagement with military and intelligence sectors.
  3. Future conflicts could harm the planet directly and shift focus away from crucial efforts to combat climate and biodiversity emergencies.

Report: Israeli drones lure Palestinians with crying children recordings, then shoot them

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 120 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Israeli drones are reportedly using recordings of crying children to trick Palestinians into coming out of hiding. This tactic has led to serious injuries and deaths when the drones then fire on them.
  2. A recent UN report highlights that a significant number of casualties from the Israeli assault in Gaza are women and children, with many of the victims being young kids.
  3. The actions being described are viewed by many as deeply immoral, and there is a strong sentiment that those who support or enable this violence are complicit in the harm done.

How Ukraine, a country without a navy, destroyed 25+ Russian warships

Back To Sifar • 19 HN points • 21 Apr 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Despite lacking a navy, Ukraine employed innovative tactics and modern technology to destroy over 25 Russian warships.
  2. Cost-effective weapons like anti-tank guided missiles, tactical ballistic missiles, and anti-ship/cruise missiles were crucial in Ukraine's naval victories.
  3. The use of drones also played a significant role in Ukraine's successful attacks on the Russian Black Sea fleet, changing the dynamics of modern warfare.

A Roadblock to Genocide

The False Consensus Effect • 39 implied HN points • 27 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. International Court of Justice rulings demand Israel to prevent genocide in Gaza
  2. Americans lack access to critical information on genocide; need persistent voices for awareness
  3. Anarchism and empathy can be revolutionary; dreaming of a better world and taking small actions are impactful

Israel’s Final Solution for the Palestinians

The Chris Hedges Report • 329 implied HN points • 03 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Israeli extremists are advocating for the obliteration of Gaza and the expulsion of Palestinians.
  2. There is a deep-rooted strain of Jewish fascism within the Zionist project, now controlling the Israeli state.
  3. The Israeli government is pursuing a final solution to the Palestinian issue, including mass civilian casualties and ethnic cleansing.

Mideast War: Blessing and Curse for Russia

Natto Thoughts • 59 implied HN points • 09 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. The Mideast conflict benefits Russia through distracting the West from supporting Ukraine, undermining US efforts in the Middle East, and increasing disillusionment with the West among Global South countries.
  2. The conflict could lead to a rise in oil prices, boosting Russian government revenues, while tarnishing Israel's image as a model for Ukraine.
  3. Passionate disagreements over the Mideast conflict within the political left worldwide play into the hands of Russia by weakening Western countries and inflaming internal discord.

Russian Roulette

Diane Francis • 399 implied HN points • 09 Dec 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conflict
  1. Russia's military actions led to important talks with the US President, which highlights the seriousness of the situation.
  2. Biden warned that any invasion of Ukraine could hurt the Russian economy significantly.
  3. The tension between NATO and Russia shows the need for discussions about security for both sides.

Putin's Refugee Weapon

Diane Francis • 339 implied HN points • 04 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Ukraine and Russia agreed on temporary cease-fires to help refugees escape. This is a good humanitarian move but may also play into Putin's strategies.
  2. The cease-fires allow refugees to seek safety while allowing Russia to continue its attacks elsewhere.
  3. There's concern that these safe corridors could distract from the broader violence happening in Ukraine.

Breathtaking Resolve

Diane Francis • 339 implied HN points • 01 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Vitalii Skakun volunteered to help his country by placing explosives on a bridge to stop Russian troops. He showed incredible bravery in a dangerous situation.
  2. In his final moments, he made a significant sacrifice for his nation, putting others before his own safety.
  3. This act of courage highlights the lengths people will go to defend their homeland during a crisis.

On Certain Asymmetries

The Ruffian • 319 implied HN points • 21 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Many commentators focus on Israel's strategy in the conflict, but few ask about Hamas' endgame, which involves the elimination of Jews.
  2. The Israel-Hamas conflict showcases different objectives, with Israel aiming to secure its borders while Hamas seeks to destroy Israel completely.
  3. There is an asymmetry in the way Western leftists address the conflict, often failing to condemn Hamas's actions and aims explicitly, which is necessary for credible criticism of Israel's actions.

Congo's Curse

Comment is Freed • 80 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. The Democratic Republic of Congo is rich in natural resources, but its wealth is not benefiting its people. Instead, many live in poverty while corrupt leaders and foreign powers exploit the country.
  2. The idea of the 'resource curse' explains how having lots of valuable resources can lead to more conflict and bad governance. In places like Congo, greed often outweighs the needs of the people.
  3. Rwanda's role in the conflict in Congo is complicated, as it backs rebel groups for its own interests. This has created a cycle of violence and instability that continues to affect the region today.