The hottest Diplomacy Substack posts right now

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Top World Politics Topics

Reasons to Calm Down about China

Nonzero Newsletter • 406 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Diplomacy
  1. Americans often exaggerate threats from other countries, which can lead to unnecessary panic. It's important to take a step back and evaluate these fears critically.
  2. The current worries about China's growing power are similar to past concerns about other countries. History often shows that these fears can be overblown.
  3. Calming down about perceived threats can lead to a sense of peace and better decision-making. It's okay to question the intensity of current anxieties.

G2 World: West and China

Diane Francis • 579 implied HN points • 03 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. China is becoming more influential in the world by forming new diplomatic relationships, especially in Central Asia and the Middle East. This shift helps China secure resources and trade routes.
  2. The conflict in Ukraine has weakened Russia's global standing, allowing countries like China and India to gain access to Russian resources at lower prices. As a result, China's influence continues to grow while Russia struggles economically.
  3. The global landscape is evolving into a bipolar world with the West and China as the main players. Both sides focus on economic stability and infrastructure development to support their interests.

Amb. Burns Reflects from Beijing

ChinaTalk • 415 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. Dialogue is crucial in maintaining relationships between superpowers. Talking helps address issues and avoid misunderstandings that could escalate into conflicts.
  2. China faces a choice between aligning with disruptive nations like Russia or acting as a responsible global power. Their decisions now have significant implications for their international relationships.
  3. Having strong alliances is essential for the U.S. in its competition with China. Allies amplify American power and help maintain global stability.

French ambassador: US 'rules-based order' means Western domination, violating international law

Geopolitical Economy Report • 498 implied HN points • 22 Nov 22
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. The 'rules-based order' is essentially a 'Western order', with the US and Europe dominating international institutions like the UN, World Bank, and IMF.
  2. There is concern in Europe about the US engaging in economic warfare against China, which could lead to a new cold war. Europe does not want to be forced to pick sides.
  3. It's important to understand and consider the interests of other major global stakeholders like China, India, and Brazil in creating a more balanced world, rather than maintaining Western hegemony.
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Russia Has Lost the War

Diane Francis • 1039 implied HN points • 29 Aug 22
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. Russia has faced significant losses in the conflict, both militarily and in public opinion. Many Russians are now aware that the war is not going as promised, and casualties are high.
  2. Ukraine is receiving strong support from Western countries and is strategically pushing back against Russian forces. Ukraine's leadership has rallied its people and the globe around a strong defense of their territory.
  3. Putin's attempts to control the narrative and gain support from allies are failing. Countries like China and India are distancing themselves, and the global stance against Russia's actions is getting stronger.

Optics vs Reality

Phillips’s Newsletter • 140 implied HN points • 31 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Diplomacy
  1. Optics often take precedence over reality, especially in politics like Trump's approach to trade. It’s important to recognize that what looks good publicly might not be beneficial in practice.
  2. The recent trade deal between the US and EU has created confusion about what was actually agreed upon. This lack of clarity makes it difficult to enforce any future agreements effectively.
  3. The EU is trying to negotiate new deals with other countries, which could help them in the long run. If the US market becomes less accessible, they might focus more on strengthening their own economy.

Peru coup: CIA agent turned US ambassador met with defense minister day before president overthrown

Geopolitical Economy Report • 438 implied HN points • 17 Dec 22
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. The US ambassador in Peru, a former CIA agent, met with the defense minister one day before the country's left-wing president was overthrown in a coup.
  2. The coup in Peru led to widespread protests, with the US government supporting the unelected regime that deployed military to crush demonstrations.
  3. The situation in Peru highlights the complex interactions between international politics, government institutions, and democratic processes.

The West vs. The Rest

Diane Francis • 599 implied HN points • 02 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. China and India are becoming powerful players in the world, often supporting Russia instead of Ukraine. This creates a divide between the West, which supports Ukraine, and other countries that are more neutral.
  2. Many countries outside the West prioritize ending the war over winning it, fearing that it could escalate into something more dangerous. People in places like China and India want peace, even if it means giving up some territory.
  3. India is a key player in global politics and is being courted by both the US and Germany for its support. As it grows economically, its stance on issues like the Ukraine war will be important.

China Isolates Russia

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

BRICS or NATO? G20 or G77? Summits debate rapidly changing world order

Geopolitical Economy Report • 279 implied HN points • 24 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. The changing world order is reflected in the rapid pace of international summits like BRICS, G20, G77, and the UN General Assembly.
  2. Russia's pivot towards the Far East, specifically in Vladivostok, showcases a strong focus on development and economic collaboration with Asian countries.
  3. De-dollarization and the use of e-currencies, such as blockchain mechanisms, are potential avenues for creating alternative payment systems within the global majority.

Everything You Need To Know About the U.S. / Israeli War With Iran (w/ Alastair Crooke) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 142 implied HN points • 10 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Diplomacy
  1. The conflict between Israel, Iran, and the U.S. isn't finished yet, and future actions will deeply affect the Middle East and global economy.
  2. Israel's surprise attacks were planned carefully, using technology and strategies that can't easily be repeated, while Iran’s military readiness is now heightened.
  3. The U.S. and its allies face challenges in their approach to Iran, as aggressive tactics may push Iran towards developing nuclear weapons, contrary to their intentions.

Indiana Johannes and Raiders of the Lost ANC, PART I

Who is Robert Malone • 9 implied HN points • 28 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. South African officials raided a U.S.-linked refugee processing center on a symbolic Afrikaner holiday, appearing to target and intimidate Afrikaner applicants and disrupt a U.S. resettlement program, which deepened tensions with the United States.
  2. The U.S. administration set clear preconditions for normalizing relations—like treating farm attacks as a priority, condemning violent anti-white rhetoric, protecting property rights, and exempting U.S. entities from race-based rules—and effectively sidelined South Africa at the G20, signaling a major diplomatic rift.
  3. South Africa is portrayed as facing severe domestic crises—widespread crime and syndicates, corruption, shrinking economic standing, and contested land expropriations—that are undermining institutions and driving social and political instability.

December 5, 2025

Letters from an American • 30 implied HN points • 06 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. The new U.S. National Security Strategy breaks with the post–World War II rules-based order and favors a world divided into great-power spheres of influence instead of multilateral institutions like the UN and NATO.
  2. The document centers a culturally nationalist agenda that rejects immigration and many climate policies while praising a return to “traditional” families, and observers noted its language and numbering echo white supremacist references.
  3. It pivots U.S. focus to the Western Hemisphere with a self-styled “Trump Corollary” that uses tariffs and government-backed commercial diplomacy to promote American companies, signals willingness to use military force regionally, and steps back from European commitments while signaling a softer posture toward Russia.

Is Somalia turning the corner?

An Africanist Perspective • 296 implied HN points • 03 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. There is cause for cautious optimism in Somalia as book fairs in Mogadishu, a property boom, weakening of Al-Shabaab, and regional cooperation signal positive changes.
  2. Somalia has a complex history of conflicts and irredentist desires that have contributed to its state of instability since the 1970s.
  3. Ethiopia and Kenya have historically had conflicting interests in Somalia, aiming for a weak central government to serve their own security interests despite the need for peace and stability in the region.

Your favourite half-British president

Wrong Side of History • 441 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Diplomacy
  1. Donald Trump has a unique connection to Britain through his mother, making him the first president with a British parent in a long time. This connection could be beneficial for both countries.
  2. Trump has expressed admiration for British culture and history, which shows his sentimental side towards the UK. This could be a useful asset in building good diplomatic relations.
  3. His love for British sports, especially golf and football, highlights his connection to the culture. This shared interest could help strengthen ties between the US and the UK.

Europe Pushes Back

Comment is Freed • 101 implied HN points • 19 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Diplomacy
  1. Donald Trump's approach to peace talks is quite unpredictable and lacks consistency. His statements can change quickly, so it's hard to know what he truly thinks or plans.
  2. Unlike previous presidents who worked deeply on conflicts, Trump seems to focus more on making headlines rather than diving into the details. This could lead to agreements that are vague and hard to implement.
  3. European leaders feel the need to rally around Ukraine during these talks to ensure they have Trump’s support. They worry that Trump’s influence may pressure Ukraine into unfair agreements.

Would It Be Over?

Points And Figures • 932 implied HN points • 10 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. The bombing of German cities during WWII had a significant impact on post-war Germany, changing behaviors and diminishing the desire for another war.
  2. A large majority of Palestinians desire the erasure of Israel from the international map, similar to the sentiment among German citizens under Hitler in the 1940s.
  3. Complete and total war on terrorist organizations like Hamas and Hezbollah is seen as necessary for the peace of Israel and the world, rather than proposing humanitarian aid or two-state solutions.

Half-Baked Alaska

Comment is Freed • 103 implied HN points • 16 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Diplomacy
  1. The Alaska summit didn’t meet high expectations, as there were fears that Putin would manipulate Trump into a bad deal. However, nothing concrete was agreed upon, which means no immediate setbacks for Ukraine.
  2. While Trump described the meeting positively, Putin used it to portray himself as a peacemaker. This created a perception that he was gaining international favor, despite limited results.
  3. A shift in focus occurred from trying to achieve a ceasefire to discussing a long-term settlement while fighting continues. This change in approach could affect future peace talks.

Offense not Defense

Diane Francis • 639 implied HN points • 22 Dec 22
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. Zelensky met with Biden and spoke to Congress, gaining support for Ukraine and pushing for more weapons to go on the offense against Russia. This move shows Ukraine's determination to regain control and not just defend.
  2. Despite Russia's threats and ongoing aggression, Zelensky believes a nuclear strike from Putin is unlikely, as it would endanger his own life. He focuses on the resilience and unity of the Ukrainian people during tough times.
  3. Sanctions against Russia are working, and there's a strong belief among Ukrainians that they will win the war. They remain hopeful and supportive of each other, continuing their celebrations and traditions even amid adversity.

US Foreign Policy Marches On

John’s Substack • 5 implied HN points • 10 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. The conversation centered on how Trump’s foreign policy could reshape international institutions and international law.
  2. Major conflicts like Gaza, tensions with Iran, and the war in Ukraine were discussed as pressing foreign policy challenges.
  3. There was a clear sense of concern or pessimism about the current state of US foreign policy and the global crises it faces.

Nuremberg not Negotiations

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

December 10, 2025

Letters from an American • 23 implied HN points • 11 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights set out clear fundamental rights for everyone after World War II. It lists freedoms like protection from torture, equality before the law, free education, and a decent standard of living.
  2. Although the Declaration itself is not legally binding, it became the foundation for many international treaties and national laws that enforce human rights and give victims language and mechanisms to seek accountability.
  3. Recent U.S. actions — including not observing Human Rights Day, threats to the ICC, and reported questionable military strikes and efforts to avoid legal review — underscore growing tensions between national policies and international human rights norms. These developments raise real concerns about accountability and the protection of victims.

What's Left to Say?

Unpopular Front • 132 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Diplomacy
  1. Trump's foreign policy is mostly just reacting to events, with no clear strategy. This makes it hard to achieve any long-term goals.
  2. The relationship between Trump and Netanyahu may lead to dangerous outcomes, like conflicts in the Middle East and destabilization for the U.S.
  3. There's a risk that ongoing tensions and conflicts will push countries to seek nuclear weapons for security, making the world a more dangerous place.

The End of Empires

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 4 implied HN points • 08 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. Traditional US allies are striking independent deals with China, as seen in Canada’s new strategic partnership and tariff reductions.
  2. Past confrontations like tariffs and high‑profile arrests haven’t stopped rapprochement, showing countries often prioritize trade and economic benefit over political alignment.
  3. Those shifts weaken alliance cohesion and indicate that growing economic ties to China could challenge U.S. global leadership.

Venezuela: An Evil Omen

Charles Eisenstein • 15 implied HN points • 04 Jan 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Diplomacy
  1. Recent US actions toward Venezuela—abduction, killings, and seizures—represent a dangerous rejection of the rule of law, replacing legal norms with raw power.
  2. This trend has roots in decades of bipartisan imperialism and was intensified when leaders chose blunt military force over subtle influence, eroding trust in diplomacy and making negotiation dangerous.
  3. Fixing it requires a new kind of politics that stands for peace and dignity, addresses the conditions that create oppressive leaders, and treats opponents with humanity rather than demonization.

To Bomb, Or Not To Bomb

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 139 implied HN points • 21 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Diplomacy
  1. There are important decisions to make regarding the conflict between Israel and Iran, and these decisions affect many people. Thinking carefully before acting in such situations is crucial.
  2. Advice given to leaders needs to consider both the moral and practical implications of their actions. It's important to weigh the consequences before suggesting aggressive strategies.
  3. Personal conduct and image can influence how seriously leaders are taken. Leaders should present themselves well and be responsible in their behavior to earn respect and trust.

A COMPLICATED SETTLEMENT FOR UKRAINE?

Seymour Hersh • 21 implied HN points • 17 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. Russia and Ukraine are both under severe economic and military stress, and their leaders now appear willing to negotiate a settlement to end the war. Talks focus on a handful of major unresolved points that could determine each country’s future.
  2. US envoys are brokering a deal to release more than $250 billion in frozen Russian assets, with proposals that a new US-led entity would oversee reconstruction, take a large share of profits, and select contractors. The plan reportedly would keep reconstruction funds out of Russian hands.
  3. Career diplomats and officials, notably State Department planners and Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll, are driving the breakthrough while the US president is largely detached, and Putin is under growing domestic and military pressure that limits his options.

Iran's Jewish Population Belies Claims Of Tehran's Genocidal Intent

Stark Realities with Brian McGlinchey • 785 implied HN points • 27 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. Iran has a significant Jewish population that contradicts claims of genocidal intentions against Jews by the Tehran government.
  2. Iranian Jews enjoy freedom to practice their faith and live peacefully, even though they face limitations in certain aspects of society.
  3. The Iranian government's rhetoric often involves strong language against Israel as a political entity, but it does not necessarily translate to genocidal threats towards Jewish people.

More Mafia State Alignment and Merz Declares Independence

Phillips’s Newsletter • 250 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Diplomacy
  1. The USA is changing its stance and is now aligning more with Russia, moving away from support for Ukraine. This shift is alarming because it goes against earlier views that blamed Russia for the invasion.
  2. Friedrich Merz, the leader of Germany's CDU party, talked about Europe needing to become more independent from the USA for its security. He believes Europe should work on its own defense capabilities.
  3. Merz’s victory in Germany’s elections might signal a big change in European politics. If he pushes for closer unity in Europe, it could really reshape how Europe deals with challenges from both the USA and Russia.

Release: Moustass leaks (2 GB)

Distributed Email of Secrets • 379 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Diplomacy
  1. An anonymous source leaked audio recordings involving politicians, journalists, and diplomats in Mauritius. These recordings have raised questions about privacy and government surveillance.
  2. The leak happened just days before the November 10 election, creating a stir in the political atmosphere. Some politicians and officials claimed that the recordings were fake, but many confirmed their authenticity.
  3. The government tried to control the situation by blocking social media access during the election campaign. They changed their decision after facing criticism from locals and international observers.

How Will The Ukraine War End?

John’s Substack • 6 implied HN points • 03 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. Ukraine could collapse on the battlefield soon because Russia currently has the upper hand in forces, a favorable casualty-exchange ratio, and Western military support is dwindling.
  2. If Ukraine does not collapse, Russia may escalate massively to force an end to the war, and some Russian strategists are openly urging extreme measures.
  3. While the use of nuclear weapons is considered unlikely, desperate great powers can still take drastic risks — as shown by Japan's surprise attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941.

The Battle for Pokrovsk

Comment is Freed • 77 implied HN points • 24 Aug 25
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. Ukraine needs to keep fighting until Russia realizes it can't win through military force or diplomacy. The stakes are high, and Ukraine is focused on building better defenses against attacks.
  2. Recent battles in Ukraine, especially around Pokrovsk, show just how chaotic the situation is. It's different from the usual expectations of fixed battle lines.
  3. Ukrainian forces are striking back at Russian oil refineries, disrupting their resources. They recently showcased a powerful new missile that can hit targets far away.

Top Links 536 The crisis in Cuba. Europe's dependence on the USA. The failure of intelligence in Ukraine & from Marx to Baumol to Butler.

Chartbook • 371 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. Cuba is facing a significant crisis, which could impact its people and economy.
  2. Europe relies heavily on the USA, affecting its political and economic decisions.
  3. There have been failures in intelligence regarding the situation in Ukraine, showing gaps in understanding global issues.

Managing The Powerful.

Trying to Understand the World • 6 implied HN points • 28 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. A country needs a professional, independent administrative service and experienced advisers to turn leaders' decisions into reality; without that backbone, even capable leaders fail.
  2. Modern politics tends to select for ambitious, careerist, and sycophantic actors rather than people with real managerial or policy skills, which produces poor judgement, delay, and short-term thinking.
  3. The rise of TV, the internet, social media, and personalised political staffs has weakened institutions and pushed governments back toward rule by favourites and amateurs, making states less capable and more erratic.

The Davos Donnybrook

John’s Substack • 8 implied HN points • 23 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. Mark Carney warned of a growing rupture between the United States and its NATO allies, signaling rising transatlantic tensions.
  2. Trump used his Davos speech to push a radical shift in U.S. foreign policy, emphasizing tougher and unconventional approaches.
  3. His 'Board of Peace,' originally aimed at Gaza, has morphed into a proposal that could serve as an alternative to the United Nations.

Europe and US meet with Venezuela's real President Maduro - desperate for lower oil prices, their coup attempt falters

Geopolitical Economy Report • 338 implied HN points • 10 Nov 22
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. France's President Macron, US's John Kerry, and Portugal's PM met with Venezuela's President Maduro to discuss lowering oil prices, despite past coup attempts.
  2. The West, including the US, France, and Portugal, is seeking alternatives to Russian oil as the EU faces a deadline to cut off imports and cope with high energy costs.
  3. Western powers, after years of trying to overthrow Venezuela's government, are now engaging in friendly dialogue with President Maduro due to economic interests and the need to reduce oil prices.

Trying to Wreck Iran and Failing

John’s Substack • 10 implied HN points • 14 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy
  1. The US and Israel have been central in stoking protests in Iran with the aim of breaking the country apart rather than just forcing regime change, and that campaign has failed.
  2. Ukraine is in desperate straits: millions are evading mobilization, hundreds of thousands are AWOL, Russian drone and missile strikes are inflicting heavy damage, and even Kyiv residents are being urged to leave.
  3. The discussion also highlighted other geopolitical flashpoints like Greenland and Venezuela, suggesting wider international instability beyond Iran and Ukraine.