The hottest Diplomacy Substack posts right now

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2023 Weekly Discussion Thread #6: Wang Yi in Europe; US-China; Struggle ζ–—δΊ‰; Bao Fan; Football and Semiconductors corruption

Sinocism β€’ 963 implied HN points β€’ 17 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy Relations Security International Agreements
  1. Consider the implications of the US-China balloon incident and potential Biden-Xi phone call or Blinken-Wang Yi meeting.
  2. Reflect on how the visit of US deputy assistant secretary of defense for China to Taiwan will be viewed by PRC policymakers.
  3. Analyze what Wang Yi may achieve at the Munich Security Conference and during his visit to Russia.

Would It Be Over?

Points And Figures β€’ 932 implied HN points β€’ 10 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict Terrorism Diplomacy Foreign Aid Peace negotiations
  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.

How America Can Use Sports Diplomacy to Promote Human Rights in the Gulf

The Liberal Patriot β€’ 511 implied HN points β€’ 16 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Sports Human Rights Diplomacy Foreign Relations International cooperation
  1. Human rights in Gulf states shouldn't just be criticized, but strategically approached through sports diplomacy.
  2. The US should strengthen its ties between sports diplomacy and human rights to promote liberal values.
  3. Encouraging human rights through sports in Gulf countries can lead to substantive change and advancements in the region.

Burkina Faso's new president condemns imperialism, quotes Che Guevara, allies with Nicaragua, Venezuela, Cuba

Geopolitical Economy Report β€’ 857 implied HN points β€’ 03 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics Nationalism Anti-Imperialism Alliances Diplomacy
  1. Burkina Faso's President Ibrahim TraorΓ© takes a strong stand against imperialism and neocolonialism, inspired by revolutionary leaders like Thomas Sankara and Che Guevara.
  2. The new government in Burkina Faso has forged alliances with countries like Nicaragua, Venezuela, and Cuba, aiming to break free from Western dominance and historical colonial ties.
  3. Prime Minister Tambèla's visits to Venezuela and Nicaragua showcase Burkina Faso's efforts to strengthen ties with Latin American revolutionary movements, building on historical solidarity and shared struggles.
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Israel: A Trap and No Endgame

Diane Francis β€’ 799 implied HN points β€’ 23 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Middle East International relations Conflict Refugees Diplomacy
  1. Israel is facing a complicated situation with no clear end goal, especially regarding the future of Gaza. The military actions may not solve the underlying issues and could make things worse for everyone involved.
  2. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza could lead to more terrorism and instability in the region if not properly addressed. There needs to be a solid plan for who will govern Gaza after Israel's military actions.
  3. The international community should push for negotiations that address the Palestinian issue. It's important for everyone in the region, including Arab states and Israel, to find a peaceful solution together.

China deepens ties with Venezuela, challenging US 'hegemonic mindset'

Geopolitical Economy Report β€’ 837 implied HN points β€’ 16 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy Foreign Relations International Organizations Geopolitics Global Economy
  1. China and Venezuela have deepened their strategic partnership, challenging the hegemonic mindset and sanctions imposed by the US.
  2. Venezuela has significant economic potential due to its vast oil and gas reserves, attracting interest from China as a reliable energy partner.
  3. The growing alliance between Venezuela and China symbolizes a shift towards South-South cooperation, emphasizing mutual development and multipolarity in today's global landscape.

THE FALL OF BASHAR ASSAD

Seymour Hersh β€’ 60 implied HN points β€’ 11 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Conflict Diplomacy Terrorism Intelligence
  1. Bashar Assad's Syria had a complicated relationship with the US. Despite being labeled as a sponsor of terrorism, Syria was actually providing valuable intelligence against Al Qaeda.
  2. The US invasion of Iraq in 2003 was a controversial decision that didn't directly target the real source of terrorism, as Saddam Hussein was not associated with Islamist groups. This raised questions about the rationale behind the war.
  3. A little-known incident occurred during the Iraq War when American forces attacked Syrians on the border. Despite the deaths, Syria chose not to retaliate publicly, highlighting a tense but intricate geopolitical situation.

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

Stark Realities with Brian McGlinchey β€’ 785 implied HN points β€’ 27 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics International Diplomacy Geopolitics Government Foreign Relations
  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.

Putin's Amigo

Diane Francis β€’ 579 implied HN points β€’ 14 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Conflict Diplomacy Military Affairs
  1. Nicolas Maduro, the president of Venezuela, is a strong ally of Putin and has worsened his country's economy despite its oil wealth.
  2. Maduro has allowed Russian companies and military groups to operate in Venezuela, contributing to his regime's security and resource extraction.
  3. Recently, Maduro claimed land in Guyana and threatened invasion, which is seen as a distraction from his own economic issues and has raised tensions in the region.

Chinese balloon was not spying, US gov't admits months after manufactured crisis

Geopolitical Economy Report β€’ 797 implied HN points β€’ 21 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy Cold War Surveillance National Security
  1. The US government admitted that the Chinese balloon incident was not related to spying, but likely due to strong winds, debunking the initial accusations.
  2. The media and US government exaggerated the situation, using it to create a Cold War-like propaganda against China, though evidence later proved otherwise.
  3. Despite the claims of surveillance capabilities, subsequent analysis showed that the balloon's sensors were never activated over US territory, making the entire scandal a manufactured crisis.

China's Russia

Diane Francis β€’ 1059 implied HN points β€’ 22 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Conflict Studies Diplomacy
  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.

Israel's Angst

Diane Francis β€’ 759 implied HN points β€’ 16 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Middle East Conflict International Law Human Rights Diplomacy
  1. Both Israelis and Palestinians face difficult lives under their governments. Many people in both groups are unhappy with their leaders, and they want a change to find a peaceful solution.
  2. The ongoing conflict is causing a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Many innocent civilians are suffering due to the violence and harsh conditions imposed by the war.
  3. There is a pressing need for a two-state solution and international cooperation to reduce tensions. Without action to promote peace, the cycles of violence will continue to harm both communities.

Can Trump do a deal with Iran?

Comment is Freed β€’ 68 implied HN points β€’ 27 Nov 24
πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ U.S. Politics Diplomacy Middle East Conflict Government Elections
  1. A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah offers a chance for better relations in the Middle East. This could lead to discussions about Gaza and possibly Israel recognizing Saudi Arabia.
  2. There is a possibility of talks between the U.S. and Iran, especially if Trump can position himself as a deal-maker. However, the complex history and current tensions make this challenging.
  3. Trump's approach to the Palestinian situation might not align with desires for full Palestinian rights. Normalizing relations with Saudi Arabia and Israel could depend on addressing these concerns.

South Korea Steps Up

Diane Francis β€’ 779 implied HN points β€’ 14 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Military Affairs Geopolitics Conflict Studies Diplomacy
  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.

Biden bombs Yemen so Israel can bomb Gaza

Speaking Security β€’ 393 implied HN points β€’ 26 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict Military Humanitarian Diplomacy International relations
  1. Biden is bombing Yemen in response to attacks by the Houthi movement disrupting global shipping.
  2. An easy solution to the crisis would be for Biden to end Israel's military offensive with a single phone call.
  3. The ongoing bombings in Yemen by the US-backed coalition and Biden's actions are deemed cruel and ineffective.

US woos India's far-right PM Modi to help wage new cold war on China

Geopolitical Economy Report β€’ 737 implied HN points β€’ 24 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Diplomacy Foreign Relations International Organizations Global Economy
  1. The US is seeking India's help in forming an alliance against China, even though India's Prime Minister Modi has links to far-right Hindu-supremacist groups.
  2. Modi's BJP party and regime in India have a history of inciting violence against minorities and undermining left-wing activism.
  3. The US aims to use India to weaken the BRICS bloc and isolate China and Russia, with efforts to sway India away from its traditional non-aligned foreign policy.

Nagorno-Karabakh update: September 21 2023

Foreign Exchanges β€’ 727 implied HN points β€’ 22 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict Ceasefire Diplomacy Atrocities International relations
  1. A new status quo in the south Caucasus region is emerging following recent events in Nagorno-Karabakh.
  2. A ceasefire has been declared between Azerbaijan and Karabakh, with Karabakh authorities agreeing to disarm their defense forces and remove Armenian military forces.
  3. Concerns about potential ethnic cleansing and the implications for Armenia's diplomatic relationships are key issues arising from the situation.

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

Glenn’s Substack β€’ 99 implied HN points β€’ 10 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Power Dynamics Conflict Studies Diplomacy
  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.

What exactly is South Africa getting from its diplomatic dalliance with Russia and other BRICS states?

An Africanist Perspective β€’ 692 implied HN points β€’ 27 May 23
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy Geopolitics International relations Foreign Policy
  1. South Africa's exclusion from the G7 Summit suggests a decline in its global influence and ability to engage as a middle power.
  2. Historically, South Africa missed opportunities to establish itself as a key player in Africa, affecting its ability to leverage regional influence.
  3. To enhance its geopolitical position, South Africa can focus on building strong continental partnerships, particularly in sectors like trade, security, and climate issues.

The Politicization of Science Diplomacy

The Honest Broker Newsletter β€’ 667 implied HN points β€’ 29 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Global Health International relations Geopolitics Diplomacy
  1. Nations are considering a Pandemic Agreement to enhance preparedness and response to disease outbreaks, focusing on science advice for a new international science advisory committee.
  2. Implementing a new science advisory committee to oversee genetic research and supervision of pandemic potential pathogens across various settings is challenging due to current political and diplomatic hurdles.
  3. The politicization of science diplomacy poses risks like compromising scientific integrity, creating 'policy-based evidence,' and jeopardizing the independence of expert advisory mechanisms, showing the need for stronger institutions where science intersects with politics.

Ukraine and Goliath

Diane Francis β€’ 999 implied HN points β€’ 25 May 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Military Strategy Conflict resolution Geopolitics Diplomacy
  1. Ukraine is gaining international support by meeting with world leaders. This has helped them secure financial aid and military resources to strengthen their fight.
  2. The battle in Bakhmut has exposed weaknesses in Russia's military. While it has been costly, it has delayed Russian advances and boosted Ukraine's strategic planning.
  3. Ukraine is preparing to improve its air force with advanced jets and defense systems. This will help protect its skies and enhance its military capabilities against Russia.

Dossier Center Investigation: Through diplomatic channels

Unmasking Russia β€’ 334 implied HN points β€’ 04 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy Sanctions Business Corruption
  1. The son of Russian Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev managed to cope with sanctions by receiving help from the family of the Norwegian ambassador, who provided ships for his work on the Arctic shelf.
  2. Nikolai Patrushev, a former FSB director and influential figure in Russia, has family members involved in important business dealings related to offshore projects in the Arctic.
  3. Connections between the son of the Norwegian ambassador to Russia and Andrey Patrushev are revealed in business transactions involving companies related to the Arctic shelf and oil and gas fields.

The Genocide in Gaza and Its Enablers

Eunomia β€’ 334 implied HN points β€’ 26 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Genocide International relations Human Rights Foreign Policy Diplomacy
  1. Biden's response to the war in Gaza shows the consequences of giving another state unlimited support.
  2. Many Democrats believe that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, yet Western governments are hesitant to act on this evidence.
  3. Public confidence in Biden's ability to handle international crises is low, especially after his support for Israel during the Gaza conflict.

NATO + Ukraine

Diane Francis β€’ 759 implied HN points β€’ 10 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict analysis Diplomacy Military Strategy Geopolitics
  1. NATO is discussing whether to commit to Ukraine's future membership, which many believe is crucial given Ukraine's sacrifices.
  2. Without a clear commitment from NATO, the ongoing conflict may continue longer than necessary.
  3. There's a strong call for NATO to provide Ukraine with a no-fly zone and air support immediately.

US admits weather pushed Chinese balloon off course, US shot down hobbyists' $12 balloon in $2M missile attack

Geopolitical Economy Report β€’ 637 implied HN points β€’ 19 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Military Diplomacy Espionage
  1. US officials acknowledged the Chinese balloon they shot down was likely blown off course by unexpected weather.
  2. The US Air Force spent roughly $2 million using missiles to destroy a $12 hobbyist balloon, causing unnecessary expenditure.
  3. US intelligence officials later admitted that the Chinese balloon may have been diverted off course by weather, leading to a potential misunderstanding and an unnecessary military response.

Ukraine's Zelensky admits he sabotaged Minsk peace deal with Russia, West blocked negotiations

Geopolitical Economy Report β€’ 637 implied HN points β€’ 12 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict resolution Diplomacy
  1. Ukraine's Zelensky admitted to sabotaging the Minsk peace deal with Russia, using it to prepare for war instead of implementing it as agreed.
  2. The West, including former Israeli Prime Minister Bennett, has been reported to have blocked peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, favoring escalations over peace talks.
  3. Prior to Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the West rejected Moscow's demands for written security guarantees, sparking tensions and contributing to the conflict.

US ambassador arrogantly lectures China β€˜threat’: β€˜We’re the leader in this region (Asia)’!

Geopolitical Economy Report β€’ 578 implied HN points β€’ 04 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics China US Diplomacy Foreign Relations Global Leadership
  1. US Ambassador Nicholas Burns showcased an arrogant and aggressive attitude towards China, declaring the US as the leader in the Indo-Pacific region.
  2. The US is focusing on competing with China in military power, economy, technology, and human rights, reflecting a rising tension between the two nations.
  3. There is a close relationship between US corporations and the State Department, with US diplomats highlighting the importance of collaboration with the private sector.

Saudi, Islam, Russia

Diane Francis β€’ 799 implied HN points β€’ 29 May 23
🌍 World Politics Middle East Geopolitics Energy Diplomacy Conflict
  1. Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince MBS is a powerful player in global politics. He manages relationships with many major countries while balancing conflicts and alliances.
  2. MBS invited Ukraine's President Zelensky to speak about the struggles of Muslims under Russian control. This could change how Arab nations view their ties with Russia.
  3. MBS has increased Saudi wealth due to rising oil prices from the Ukraine conflict. His ambitious projects and power make him a key figure to watch in international affairs.

The Putin Pivot

Diane Francis β€’ 839 implied HN points β€’ 04 May 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Diplomacy Conflict International relations Military Strategy
  1. Countries around the world are stepping away from Putin as his army struggles in Ukraine. People are noticing the ongoing violence and loss of life.
  2. Russia's military is facing big problems, including shortages of ammo and low morale among troops. Many soldiers are unhappy and refuse to fight without proper support.
  3. The battle for Crimea is key for both Ukraine and Russia. If Ukraine can regain control of Crimea, it could lead to a major shift in the war and possibly impact Putin's power.

Geopolitical game changer: China's Iran-Saudi peace deal is big blow to petrodollar and US economic hegemony

Geopolitical Economy Report β€’ 518 implied HN points β€’ 23 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy Global Economics Peace
  1. China's successful sponsorship of peace talks between Saudi Arabia and Iran deals a significant blow to the petrodollar system that has supported US economic hegemony.
  2. The peace deal encourages stability and economic cooperation in the region, potentially leading to the integration of Saudi Arabia and Iran into systems like BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
  3. The agreement reflects a growing shift towards a multipolar world where countries like China, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Iran are seeking closer economic and strategic ties, challenging traditional US dominance.

Xi blasts US β€˜containment, encirclement’ of China, Foreign Ministry slams 'hysterical neo-McCarthyism'

Geopolitical Economy Report β€’ 518 implied HN points β€’ 08 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Foreign Relations Geopolitics Diplomacy
  1. President Xi Jinping condemned the US-led Western attempt to contain, encircle, and suppress China.
  2. Foreign Minister Qin Gang criticized the US for pursuing 'hysterical neo-McCarthyism' and aiming to contain and suppress China in all aspects.
  3. Chinese leaders are making assertive statements, signaling a shift in their approach towards standing up against US policies and defending China.

German lawmaker denounces Ukraine 'proxy war' and US 'terrorist attack' on Nord Stream pipelines

Geopolitical Economy Report β€’ 538 implied HN points β€’ 24 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Diplomacy Security
  1. German lawmaker Sevim Dağdelen criticizes NATO's involvement in Ukraine as a 'proxy war' and highlights the EU acting as 'vassals' to the US.
  2. Dağdelen condemns the economic war against Russia and calls for Europe to assert its independence and prioritize diplomacy to end the conflict in Ukraine.
  3. The lack of outrage over the alleged US 'terrorist attack' on the German-Russian Nord Stream pipelines illustrates Germany's subservience to the US, revealing the need for truth and peace initiatives to counter war propaganda.