The hottest Diplomacy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics
Pekingnology β€’ 64 implied HN points β€’ 12 Dec 24
  1. Overgeneralizing diplomatic terms makes it hard to understand their true meaning. It's like saying everything is important, so nothing feels special anymore.
  2. China's diplomatic concepts have lost their original focus and clarity due to this overgeneralization. This confusion can lead to problems in how other countries perceive China's foreign policies.
  3. To fix this, China needs better coordination among its government departments when using these concepts. This will help ensure everyone is on the same page and can communicate clearly.
God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger β€’ 70 implied HN points β€’ 29 Nov 24
  1. The ceasefire with Hezbollah allowed Israel to focus on its actions in Gaza. This situation has lessened pressure on Israel and helped its military strategy.
  2. There are plans for Israeli settlers to occupy land in Gaza, which some see as an opportunity for real estate development amid ongoing conflict.
  3. Despite the violence, some Israeli leaders express a positive outlook on settling in Gaza, believing it could solve housing issues while ignoring the humanitarian crisis.
Political Currents by Ross Barkan β€’ 20 implied HN points β€’ 27 Nov 24
  1. The war in Ukraine is very complex and similar to World War I, with no clear paths to victory for either side. Ending the conflict may require tough negotiations between both countries.
  2. The current U.S. administration seems careless about escalating tensions, especially by sending long-range weapons. This approach raises concerns about the risk of a nuclear conflict.
  3. If a new president does not prioritize finding a peaceful solution, the ongoing suffering for both Ukrainians and Russians will continue, while the U.S. remains heavily involved.
steigan.no β€’ 8 implied HN points β€’ 05 Jan 25
  1. Modern surveillance technology is getting very sophisticated, and it's not just governments but also private companies that misuse these tools. People should be aware of how their data can be monitored.
  2. Amid rising tensions, there's talk about military action against Iran's nuclear program. It's crucial to understand the implications of such actions and their potential fallout.
  3. Israel is increasing its global influence funding significantly, especially in response to growing international criticism. This signals a push to improve its image during ongoing conflicts.
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Geopolitical Economy Report β€’ 338 implied HN points β€’ 10 Nov 22
  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.
Pekingnology β€’ 67 implied HN points β€’ 25 Nov 24
  1. China's People's Liberation Army is focusing on military legal governance, encouraging its officers to read Xi Jinping's statements on this topic. They want to ensure the military follows the law properly.
  2. There will be new rules from the Chinese government about how internet algorithms work. The aim is to avoid showing too much of the same content and to protect workers in the gig economy.
  3. China has expanded its visa-free travel program to include 38 countries, making it easier for people to visit. This change is meant to boost tourism and improve international relationships.
Pieter’s Newsletter β€’ 119 implied HN points β€’ 26 Jan 24
  1. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) rulings can have complex outcomes with both parties claiming victories.
  2. The ICJ provides a platform for countries to address atrocities and grievances, even if compliance and effectiveness can be limited.
  3. Legal actions against countries for war crimes can have political motivations and use the ICJ as a tool, even if actual compliance is questionable.
Diane Francis β€’ 559 implied HN points β€’ 27 Oct 22
  1. China is trying to distance itself from Russia due to the negative impact of Putin's actions on its reputation and economy. Xi Jinping is making cautious moves to show he's not fully aligned with Moscow.
  2. A meeting between Xi and Biden could help improve China's international standing and address shared concerns about Russia's nuclear threats. It could also lead to better trade relationships for China.
  3. China faces serious domestic challenges, including economic downturns and issues with foreign investment. Xi needs to address these problems and find a way to mend fences with other nations.
John’s Substack β€’ 10 implied HN points β€’ 21 Dec 24
  1. Putin is seen as directly challenging Western countries, hinting at a serious conflict. This creates tension and uncertainty in international relations.
  2. There's a focus on the situation in Ukraine, highlighting ongoing concerns and unsettling discussions about war.
  3. The dialogue around these issues feels bleak, suggesting that problems are expected to persist into the future.
Diane Francis β€’ 679 implied HN points β€’ 21 Jul 22
  1. Kazakhstan is standing up to Russia and has openly criticized Putin's actions in Ukraine. This shows that Kazakhstan wants to assert its independence and build better ties with other countries.
  2. Kazakhstan is rich in resources like oil and uranium and is making plans to export its resources to Europe without relying on Russia. They are working on new pipelines to connect to European markets.
  3. The Kazakh leader has been reforming the country and moving closer to allies like Turkey and China. This shift could help Kazakhstan become a key player in Central Asia and beyond.
Humanities in Revolt β€’ 179 implied HN points β€’ 02 Oct 23
  1. Mainstream war reporting often uses vague euphemisms and jargon, which can obscure the true impact of conflict on human lives.
  2. The language we use around war matters, as it can shape perceptions and beliefs. It's recommended to use direct language that accurately reflects the reality of warfare.
  3. It's important to be conscious of how we attribute responsibility in discussions of war, avoiding language that masks the true agents of violence and destruction.
Wang Xiangwei's Thought of the Day on China β€’ 176 implied HN points β€’ 11 Jul 23
  1. China is intensifying military preparations to potentially attack Taiwan, raising concerns internationally.
  2. It is important for Taiwan's future leaders to avoid policies or actions seen as promoting independence to prevent conflict in the Taiwan Strait.
  3. Reaching a new consensus between China and the U.S. on the Taiwan issue is crucial to avoid war and dispel the shadow of conflict.
Wang Xiangwei's Thought of the Day on China β€’ 176 implied HN points β€’ 14 Mar 23
  1. Li Qiang emphasized focus on reviving the economy in the next five years, reassuring the private sector and promising to improve the entrepreneurship environment.
  2. Li Qiang made it clear that his role is to execute plans set out by President Xi Jinping, showing a change from past premier styles.
  3. Li Qiang maintained a sharp focus on reviving the economy during his press conference, dedicating less time to international relations and emphasizing the importance of field research.
John’s Substack β€’ 10 implied HN points β€’ 17 Dec 24
  1. Many Western leaders have unrealistic ideas about how to end the Ukraine war. They often don’t fully consider the perspectives and motivations of Russia.
  2. There is a strong sense that the Western approach to the conflict is disconnected from reality. This can lead to poor decisions and a longer-lasting war.
  3. Addressing the conflict might require a more pragmatic and honest discussion about the interests of all parties involved. It's important to find common ground to achieve peace.
Diane Francis β€’ 539 implied HN points β€’ 22 Sep 22
  1. Putin is more isolated than ever, and he knows his war in Ukraine is failing. He is trying to recruit more soldiers and has made threats, but this shows desperation.
  2. Ukraine is succeeding on the battlefield, and there's a push for countries like China and Turkey to help mediate a ceasefire. The conflict might drag on through Winter as both sides try to gain the upper hand.
  3. Putin's threats of nuclear war are being taken seriously, but there is concern that using such weapons would harm his relationships with allies. The situation remains tense, with many calling for serious consequences if Russia escalates further.
ChinaTalk β€’ 415 implied HN points β€’ 22 Jun 23
  1. Xi Jinping's policies are limiting opportunities for aspiring China watchers under his leadership.
  2. The avenues that previous generations had to study and work in China are becoming increasingly scarce.
  3. The restrictions imposed by the Chinese government, particularly under Xi's rule, are impacting international relations and understanding of China.
Aaron Mate β€’ 167 implied HN points β€’ 13 Feb 24
  1. Biden seeks $61 billion to 'future-proof' Ukraine war instead of engaging in diplomacy with Putin
  2. The White House and bipartisan lawmakers favor a prolonged proxy war in Ukraine over talks with Moscow
  3. The decision to reject Putin's call for talks signals a focus on militarization and financial investment in the conflict
Diane Francis β€’ 619 implied HN points β€’ 30 May 22
  1. Henry Kissinger thinks Ukraine should make a deal with Russia to avoid escalating the conflict. He worries that pushing too hard could lead to a larger world war.
  2. George Soros has a different approach and likely believes in a tougher stance against Russia. He thinks it’s important to support Ukraine more strongly instead of compromising.
  3. The clash of ideas between Kissinger and Soros shows the different opinions on how to handle global conflicts, especially with big players like Russia.
The Chris Hedges Report β€’ 349 implied HN points β€’ 02 Jul 23
  1. The U.S. public is being manipulated into funding endless wars with false narratives.
  2. Wars in Afghanistan, Iraq, and now Ukraine have exposed lies behind justifications and promises of victory.
  3. The war industry profits while the public suffers, and the real enemy lies in the militarization driven by the industry.
ChinaTalk β€’ 133 implied HN points β€’ 04 Mar 24
  1. AI can enhance diplomacy by streamlining bureaucratic tasks, providing accurate data for negotiations, and improving analysis processes.
  2. Risk management in the State Department varies for different tasks: while tasks like HR and IT services can run faster to match the private sector, activities like foreign assistance and passport services require a higher burden due to their public impact.
  3. Strategic use of transparency can be a strength for the U.S. in diplomacy, as seen in the Biden administration's doctrine. Leveraging transparency internally and externally can have strategic advantages over closed societies.
Diane Francis β€’ 739 implied HN points β€’ 21 Feb 22
  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.
Critical Mass β€’ 7 implied HN points β€’ 18 Dec 24
  1. The roots of the Ukraine war are linked to NATO's eastward expansion, which broke promises made to Russia. Finding a solution might need diplomatic efforts, including talks led by unexpected leaders like Donald Trump.
  2. The Palestinian situation in Gaza is viewed as unjust and similar to apartheid, with a two-state solution being the best way forward. This idea aligns with international views but is not accepted by the current Israeli government.
  3. Engaging in respectful and open discussions about tough topics is important. It’s essential to keep dialogue going, even when there are disagreements, to explore solutions for complex issues.
Diane Francis β€’ 539 implied HN points β€’ 30 Jun 22
  1. The G7 and NATO have united to support Ukraine against Russia, marking a significant global response to aggression. This coalition aims to strengthen military and economic support for Ukraine.
  2. NATO is expanding its military presence and capability in response to the conflict, with plans to increase troops and improve defense strategies. This is a shift towards taking greater responsibility for European security.
  3. Despite the support for Ukraine, there is concern that it may not be enough to deter Russia, as the situation remains dire for Ukraine. The Ukrainian people are committed to their fight, showing resilience against overwhelming odds.
Diane Francis β€’ 679 implied HN points β€’ 10 Mar 22
  1. No agreement was reached in the meeting between Ukraine and Russia, which was a disappointment. This shows that tensions are still high and negotiations are tough.
  2. Russia seems to have the advantage in this situation, as they are demanding complete surrender from Ukraine. This makes it harder for Ukraine to negotiate a better outcome.
  3. Turkey is trying to help by being a mediator, but the outcome of the talks doesn't look promising given the circumstances. It's a complicated situation for everyone involved.
Diane Francis β€’ 419 implied HN points β€’ 03 Oct 22
  1. Putin and Zelensky both seem unwilling to negotiate, even as the war continues to escalate with more conflict on the ground.
  2. Both Russia and Ukraine want to achieve better positions before any talks, which makes it hard to find common ground for peace.
  3. The situation could lead to risky outcomes, including the potential use of nuclear weapons, so finding a resolution is very important.
Diane Francis β€’ 659 implied HN points β€’ 27 Feb 22
  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.
Beijing Channel β€’ 6 implied HN points β€’ 29 Dec 24
  1. China's Ministry of Commerce has started an investigation into beef imports due to a big increase in imported beef that is hurting local cattle farmers.
  2. The investigation was prompted by requests from multiple industry groups worried about the impact of rising imports on their livelihoods.
  3. China emphasizes that the investigation is not targeting specific countries and that normal trade will continue during the probe.
steigan.no β€’ 4 implied HN points β€’ 09 Jan 25
  1. Curt Muskos, who inspired the song 'Balladen om Olsson,' passed away recently. He was a symbol of working-class struggle in Sweden.
  2. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called for major destruction in Palestinian cities, comparing them to Jabalia in Gaza, which has faced severe devastation.
  3. The Biden administration is planning a significant arms package for Ukraine before the new president, Donald Trump, takes office, aiming to speed up weapon transfers amid ongoing tensions.
Comment is Freed β€’ 204 implied HN points β€’ 08 Oct 23
  1. Hamas attacks on Israel were well planned and orchestrated, not impulsive responses to recent events.
  2. Israel is facing political backlash and may form an emergency unity government with opposition parties for support.
  3. The conflict with Hamas poses challenges for Israel in terms of security, containment, and potential involvement of other groups like Hezbollah.
An Africanist Perspective β€’ 138 implied HN points β€’ 04 Jan 23
  1. America's Africa Policy has been hindered by persistent bad habits and missed opportunities, such as neglecting to leverage connections with the large Black population for strategic alliances.
  2. There have been successes in US-Africa relations, like President George W. Bush's PEPFAR and various commercial initiatives, but the policy needs to prioritize state-building, support developmental agendas, and streamline objectives.
  3. To enhance US-Africa relations, it is crucial to align policy with African institutions, cultivate a strong domestic pro-Africa constituency, and acknowledge the region's significance in the global context.
Geopolitical Economy Report β€’ 438 implied HN points β€’ 08 Jan 22
  1. Economist Michael Hudson explains the global inflation crisis, pointing out the flaws in how inflation is measured in the US
  2. The Federal Reserve's $4.5 trillion bank bailout violated regulations and was directed towards big banks such as JP Morgan Chase and Citibank
  3. China and Russia are working on creating independent financial systems to reduce reliance on the US-controlled financial system
Pekingnology β€’ 49 implied HN points β€’ 22 Oct 24
  1. China is trying to improve its relationships with Japan, Britain, and Israel. They want to start fresh and strengthen cooperation in various areas.
  2. India has made progress with China by reaching an agreement on their long-standing border issues. This could help ease tensions between the two countries after years of conflict.
  3. The recent diplomatic talks indicate a shift in the way these countries engage with China, focusing on mutual respect and cooperation to address challenges together.
Diane Francis β€’ 479 implied HN points β€’ 21 Apr 22
  1. The battle in Ukraine's Donbas region is crucial, with intense fighting expected as both sides prepare for a high-stakes conflict. Ukraine is determined to defend its territory, drawing on strong morale and support from Western allies.
  2. Russia may have military advantages in terms of size and equipment, but Ukraine has key factors like knowledge of the terrain and the backing of NATO. This battle is seen as a turning point that could affect the outcome of the war.
  3. Even if Russia wins in Donbas, the ongoing conflict could exhaust its military and weaken Putin's regime over time. A prolonged fight could also lead to economic repercussions for Russia and impact global markets.
Diane Francis β€’ 539 implied HN points β€’ 07 Feb 22
  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.
Matthew's Notebook β€’ 98 implied HN points β€’ 21 Feb 23
  1. The Biden administration is perceived to have given Israel the go-ahead to bomb Iran.
  2. The U.S. seems to have shifted away from peaceful negotiations with Iran towards supporting potential military actions against them.
  3. There are concerns about the lack of transparency and public input regarding potential military actions against Iran.