The hottest Diplomacy Substack posts right now

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Top World Politics Topics

Talking Ukraine on "The Deep Dive"

John’s Substack • 7 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Conflict Studies Security Studies Diplomacy
  1. The discussion focused on Ukraine and its current situation. It's clear that the geopolitical context is quite complex and evolving.
  2. The conversation coincided with significant political developments, like Trump's announcement regarding Putin. This shows how quickly events can change the narrative around Ukraine.
  3. Engaging with experts such as military personnel provides deeper insights into the issues at hand. Their perspectives can help us understand the implications of political decisions.

End of Year Review: the Russo-Ukraine War

Comment is Freed • 99 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Conflict analysis International relations Military Strategy Diplomacy
  1. The Russo-Ukraine War is a prolonged conflict with no clear solution in sight. Both sides are struggling with ongoing military challenges and the need to adapt strategies.
  2. Ukraine continues to resist despite facing tough circumstances, while Russia shows urgency in its operations but has faced significant casualties. There's a conversation about whether Russia can sustain its fighting force in the long term.
  3. US support for Ukraine has been mixed, with concerns about military aid and restrictions on how it can be used. This might affect Ukraine's chances of a successful outcome, especially if the leadership changes.

Rejected Cabinet Nominees

Thinking about... • 468 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government History Elections Policy Diplomacy
  1. Some cabinet nominees have been rejected by the Senate in the past, which shows that this is not a common but not unheard of process. It highlights the Senate's role in approving nominees through its 'advice and consent' power.
  2. There have been instances where nominees were found to have serious personal issues or lacked qualifications, leading to their withdrawal or rejection. This raises concerns about the suitability of some of today's nominees.
  3. The history of rejected nominees emphasizes the importance of maintaining standards for cabinet positions. Questions about past employment of undocumented workers should be a part of evaluating nominees, especially given current immigration policies.

The glory of Europe

Striking 13 • 1577 implied HN points • 15 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics European Union Global relations Populism Diplomacy Freedom
  1. The European Union navigated complex political challenges with a mix of negotiation and compromise, showcasing the effectiveness of careful diplomacy over populism.
  2. The European Union's core principle of uniting economies to prevent war is facing challenges from rising populism, border control issues, and shifts in global trade dynamics.
  3. The recent events surrounding Ukraine's EU membership aspirations highlight the importance of the European Union's approach to politics, emphasizing peace, compromise, and true freedom.
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It's World War III

Diane Francis • 1678 implied HN points • 06 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Conflict Diplomacy Security Foreign Policy
  1. The conflicts in Israel and Ukraine are seen as part of a larger world war driven by Russia. Putin's actions are creating unrest globally, not just in those regions.
  2. Russia uses various tactics, including hybrid warfare, to destabilize nations and influence events. This includes supporting groups like Hamas and using misinformation.
  3. A unified global response is necessary to counter Russia's influence. Without international cooperation, the ongoing conflicts and instability will persist.

Who Does Europe Call If It Wants to Talk to the United States?

Drezner’s World • 943 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Foreign Relations Diplomacy International Aid Global Alliances
  1. Europe faced challenges in making foreign policy decisions due to internal disagreements, but eventually reached an agreement by employing strong tactics.
  2. The European Union managed to secure financial support for Ukraine despite obstacles from Hungary by applying pressure and using negotiation strategies effectively.
  3. The United States encountered difficulties in passing aid packages for Ukraine as negotiations were linked to immigration policies, ultimately leading to a stalled process and uncertain outcomes.

End of Year Review: the Middle East

Comment is Freed • 56 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East Conflict Diplomacy International relations Security
  1. The Middle East situation has been changing rapidly, especially with Iran's influence weakening and challenges faced by groups like Hamas and the Assad regime in Syria.
  2. Israel's strategy in the Gaza conflict has faced many criticisms, particularly for not clearly defining what victory looks like and for the high civilian casualty rates due to its military approaches.
  3. With leadership changes expected, particularly with Trump returning, the future of Israel-Palestine relations and Iran's stability could shift, bringing new challenges and potential for conflict.

Syria after Assad

In My Tribe • 577 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict Diplomacy Sovereignty Geopolitics Middle East
  1. Syria isn't ready for democracy yet. The country lacks the necessary conditions and institutions to support a democratic system.
  2. After Assad's fall, the rebel groups may struggle to unite due to their different ethnic and political backgrounds. Their divisions could lead to conflict among themselves.
  3. Syria has significant strategic importance to neighboring countries like Turkey, Iran, and Israel. These powers may influence Syria's future to protect their own interests.

Why Palestine Can't Deliver Peace

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 3096 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Conflict Peace Extremism Diplomacy
  1. Most Palestinians hold extreme views on the conflict with Israel, hindering the possibility of peace.
  2. For peace to be achievable, Palestinian society needs to be less hostile towards Jews and able to prevent extremists from derailing negotiations.
  3. Israel must be confident in the stability of a new Palestinian state and its ability to address internal opposition to ensure lasting peace.

2024 Year in Review (Part 2)

Phillips’s Newsletter • 85 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Conflict Military International relations Diplomacy
  1. Ukraine's Kursk offensive showed that surprises are still possible in modern warfare. This campaign was unexpected and changed the course of their struggle.
  2. In the first half of 2024, Ukraine faced tough challenges due to reduced U.S. aid and heavy losses in battles. However, they adapted and found ways to fight back effectively.
  3. The Russian military strategy of micro-advances faced setbacks, allowing Ukraine to regroup and launch a strong counter-offensive later in the year.

"Peace summit" without negotiations to end the Ukraine War

Glenn’s Substack • 179 implied HN points • 19 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict resolution Diplomacy Security Studies Geopolitics
  1. The recent 'peace summit' didn't include Russia or discuss everyone’s security concerns, which is a big problem.
  2. The summit focused more on getting signatures for a declaration instead of really solving the conflict.
  3. There might be pressure now for a real peace summit that actually tries to end the war instead of just picking a side.

The West is Sleepingwalking into Major Wars - Alastair Crooke, Alexander Mercouris & Glenn Diesen

Glenn’s Substack • 179 implied HN points • 19 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics Conflicts International relations Geopolitics Military Affairs Diplomacy
  1. The West is not fully aware of the risks it faces, which could lead to major conflicts.
  2. Ignoring signs of rising tensions might result in bigger problems for everyone.
  3. It's important for leaders to engage in dialogue and understand global dynamics better to avoid war.

Between Western Hegemony & Eurasian Multipolarity

Glenn’s Substack • 179 implied HN points • 17 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Conflict Studies Security Studies Diplomacy
  1. NATO and Russia have had tensions for 30 years, leading to a potential conflict. It's important to understand this history to see how we got here.
  2. There is a growing idea of a multipolar world, especially in Eurasia, that could lead to more stability. Different countries working together can balance power and prevent wars.
  3. Shifting from a Western-dominated world to a multipolar approach might help create a more peaceful global environment. Looking beyond just one powerful nation can support better international relations.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 19.02.2025

steigan.no • 5 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Diplomacy Conflict resolution Political Analysis International relations
  1. There's a big shift in US-Russia relations where both sides are talking about normalizing diplomatic ties and ending the war in Ukraine. This could change many global dynamics.
  2. European countries seem confused and troubled by the US-Russia talks. They feel left out and worry about how this will affect their own positions.
  3. A recent study shows that organic farming is better for the environment and soil health than conventional methods. It highlights the benefits of organic practices in reducing emissions and improving biodiversity.

On America's structural inability to effectively compete with China in Africa

An Africanist Perspective • 1345 implied HN points • 27 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Africa USA China Foreign Aid Diplomacy
  1. The US faces challenges competing with China in Africa due to ineffective policy tools and institutions.
  2. America's focus on humanitarian aid and public health through USAID limits its ability to compete effectively with China in infrastructure and commercial projects in Africa.
  3. The structural and institutional biases within American foreign policy result in a lack of attention to African priorities, hindering the ability to effectively engage with the continent.

Beyond Deterrence

Comment is Freed • 98 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Security Studies Diplomacy Conflict resolution Nuclear policy
  1. Deterrence has been a major concept in defense strategy, especially during the Cold War. It suggests that showing strength can prevent aggression from others.
  2. However, relying solely on deterrence can be tricky. Sometimes threats are not taken seriously, and it might not work in every situation.
  3. The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine illustrates that a mix of deterrence strategies, like denying enemy advantages, is now more important as new forms of threats continue to arise.

Successes of the American Empire I: A Free South Korea

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 1877 implied HN points • 04 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy North Korea Military Diplomacy
  1. US foreign policy successes are often less visible than failures, making it important to acknowledge both aspects
  2. American military presence in South Korea has helped maintain peace by deterring North Korean aggression
  3. Engaging in discussions with hostile regimes, like North Korea, can provide valuable insights into their intentions

Zelensky’s 'Victory Plan' is a sign of defeat

Aaron Mate • 200 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Conflict International relations Diplomacy Security
  1. Zelensky warned that some Western countries wanted a long war in Ukraine, even if it meant Ukraine could suffer severely.
  2. He chose to ignore this warning and sided with Western leaders who pushed for ongoing fighting instead of peace.
  3. Now, Zelensky seems to be facing the consequences of that choice, feeling abandoned by those same allies he listened to.

Re-Designating the Houthis Is a Major Error

Eunomia • 668 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy Conflict Humanitarian Crisis Middle East Diplomacy
  1. The Biden administration's decision to re-designate the Houthis as terrorist group is causing harm to the people of Yemen.
  2. The re-designation undermines efforts to prevent famine in Yemen and could strengthen the Houthis' power.
  3. Re-listing the Houthis as terrorists risks reigniting conflict and will have severe consequences for innocent Yemenis.

World roundup: February 7 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 569 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Israel-Palestine European Union Diplomacy Conflict
  1. On February 7, 1992, the Maastricht Treaty was signed by 12 European Community member states, deepening European integration and contributing to the formation of the European Union.
  2. In Israel-Palestine, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected Hamas's ceasefire proposal and expressed the intention to continue military actions until achieving 'absolute victory'.
  3. On February 7, 1497, Dominican friar Girolamo Savonarola conducted the notorious 'Bonfire of the Vanities' in Florence, burning thousands of luxury items, including books.

Israel's Ayatollahs

Diane Francis • 999 implied HN points • 09 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Politics International relations Conflict Government Diplomacy
  1. A high-ranking Israeli minister suggested using a nuclear bomb against Gaza, which shocked many. This led to calls for the Prime Minister to take stronger action against such extremist views.
  2. There is a growing concern within Israel that the current government, heavily influenced by religious extremists, is eroding democratic values and the rule of law.
  3. Many Israelis, including minorities, are feeling trapped and divided due to the current political situation. While they may stay united during the war, the future after the conflict is uncertain and could lead to further chaos.

How close is war with Iran?

Bad News • 1159 implied HN points • 03 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Iran U.S. Israel Middle East Diplomacy
  1. The prospect of war with Iran is increasing, especially with recent comments from U.S. Ambassador to Israel and new military operations.
  2. The U.S. and Israel are collaborating on military exercises and contingency plans against Iran, indicating a serious military posture.
  3. The U.S. military's Support Sentry plan shows a strategic framework for potential military action against Iran, with consequences beyond war.

The United States should decouple it’s West Africa policy from France

An Africanist Perspective • 1128 implied HN points • 19 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Foreign Relations Diplomacy
  1. Decoupling the United States' West Africa policy from France could benefit both sides by strengthening relations and providing mutual economic and geopolitical advantages.
  2. The rise in anti-French sentiment in Africa could lead to a wider anti-West sentiment, potentially impacting America's standing in the region and relationships with individual African countries.
  3. Public opinion in African states is becoming increasingly important in shaping foreign policy decisions, highlighting the need for major global powers to have capable allies and engage meaningfully with the region.

Ukrainian General Syrskyi Describes Aims and Goals of Kursk Operation in First-Ever CNN Interview

Glen’s Substack • 39 implied HN points • 06 Sep 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Military Strategy Conflicts Diplomacy Geopolitics
  1. Ukrainian General Syrskyi explained that the Kursk operation aims to stop Russian forces from launching new attacks and to boost Ukrainian morale.
  2. He noted that Ukrainian troops have successfully halted Russian advances in the Pokrovsk direction, showing that their strategy is working.
  3. Syrskyi emphasized the need for Ukraine to be smarter in warfare due to Russia's material advantages, focusing on effective tactics and high-tech weaponry.

Russia's World War III

Diane Francis • 1159 implied HN points • 07 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Conflict Studies Diplomacy Security Studies
  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.

The China-is-not-Russia Summit

Diane Francis • 879 implied HN points • 16 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Geopolitics Foreign Policy Bilateral Relations Diplomacy
  1. The US and China are trying to improve their relationship to avoid conflicts and create rules for their economic competition. Both countries want to cooperate for their own benefits.
  2. China's economy is struggling, while the US is doing better, leading China to change its approach, especially after distancing itself from Russia. This change shows China's focus on economic connections over military alliances.
  3. During the summit, the leaders emphasized the importance of communication and addressing shared concerns. This effort aims to ease tensions and strengthen their crucial trading relationship.

1st call between Marco Rubio and Wang Yi

Pekingnology • 181 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Diplomacy China relations Foreign affairs Political Analysis
  1. Marco Rubio and Wang Yi had their first phone call, but the U.S. State Department mistakenly identified Wang's job title. This confusion happened even under the previous administration, showing it’s a common mix-up.
  2. In the official summary from China about their call, there was an unexpected mention of the U.S. wanting a peaceful resolution for Taiwan. This is unusual and may be a slip because it contradicts China's stance on the issue.
  3. Wang Yi gave Rubio a veiled warning to behave himself during their conversation, highlighting the tension in their relationship given Rubio's past criticisms of China.

What Europe Can do in a Worst-Case Scenario

Phillips’s Newsletter • 83 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Conflict Studies Diplomacy
  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.

West votes against democracy, human rights, cultural diversity at UN; promotes mercenaries, sanctions

Geopolitical Economy Report • 797 implied HN points • 26 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy Human Rights Sanctions Democracy Mercenaries
  1. The West voted against promoting democracy, human rights, and cultural diversity at the United Nations while supporting mercenaries and sanctions.
  2. In a UN session, resolutions condemning unilateral coercive measures (sanctions), promoting a democratic international order, and respecting human rights and cultural diversity were passed despite opposition.
  3. Another resolution condemned the use of mercenaries to violate human rights and impede peoples' right to self-determination, passing with majority support.

Release: Moustass leaks (2 GB)

Distributed Email of Secrets • 379 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Diplomacy Media Legal issues
  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.

Wang Yi at Munich Security Conference

Pekingnology • 132 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Diplomacy Global Governance Multilateralism
  1. The world is becoming multipolar, meaning many countries will have more equal power instead of just a few dominating. This is a positive change that can lead to more fairness among nations.
  2. It's essential to follow international laws and treat all countries equally, regardless of their power. Respecting each other's sovereignty helps maintain peace and stability.
  3. Cooperation, openness, and working together are key to solving global problems. Countries should not isolate themselves but instead collaborate for a better future.