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Politburo meeting, no announcement of Third Plenum; Li Shangfu missing from study session; Evergrande chairman under "control"; TikTok

Sinocism • 766 implied HN points • 28 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Economic Policy Government Foreign Policy Social Impact
  1. The Politburo meeting did not announce the dates for the Third Plenum, raising speculation about possible delays or disagreements.
  2. During the Politburo Study Session on WTO reform, key officials were absent, indicating potential areas of concern.
  3. Evergrande's chairman being placed under police surveillance raises doubts about the company's ability to avoid liquidation, impacting other struggling real estate firms.

By Toppling The Syria, The US Has Guaranteed The End Of America In The Middle East.

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 42 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Colonialism Civil Rights Political Economy
  1. The U.S. involvement in Syria may lead to negative consequences for America in the Middle East. People there could react strongly against Americans and their presence.
  2. There is a belief that American ignorance about its history and global actions contributes to its problems. Many feel that the U.S. needs to acknowledge its past mistakes and take responsibility.
  3. The current state of America's government and society is seen as corrupt. Some believe that a significant change is needed, potentially putting more power in the hands of indigenous people.

Why does the US support Israel? A geopolitical analysis with economist Michael Hudson

Geopolitical Economy Report • 617 implied HN points • 13 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Middle East International relations Foreign Policy Global Economy
  1. US support for Israel is primarily driven by geopolitical strategies and control over the Middle East region.
  2. The US sees Israel as a military base to exert control over oil reserves in the Middle East and maintain dominance in the global economy.
  3. Historical parallels can be drawn between the Crusades and current US strategies in the Middle East, indicating power struggles for oil resources and global control.

The Superhero Theory of Defense

Investing 101 • 32 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War Politics Geopolitics Military Strategy Foreign Policy National Security
  1. Strong powers attract challenges, leading to conflicts. This idea is similar to how superheroes create villains by existing.
  2. Not all conflicts are caused by mistakes. Some threats may exist regardless of actions taken, and understanding these threats is vital.
  3. Infrastructure like diplomacy can handle some conflicts, but current global tensions may require a stronger response or action to protect values and interests.
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Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 09.02.2025

steigan.no • 6 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis International relations Geopolitics Corruption Foreign Policy
  1. Norway is often seen as a very corrupt country despite its positive image. This illusion can be hard to break, but it's important to recognize the reality of corruption in Norwegian society.
  2. Many believe that Norway operates as a type of 'democratic dictatorship' where real freedom of speech is lacking and dissenting opinions face significant challenges.
  3. The current global and local political environment shows the need for a shift in how we view our identities, especially regarding national arrogance and moral superiority.

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

An Africanist Perspective • 692 implied HN points • 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 Tucker Interview

Points And Figures • 746 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy NATO Russia Ukraine China
  1. The Tucker Carlson interview with Putin didn't break new ground, but generated views and highlighted the power of Twitter for news.
  2. Putin's incorrect historical claims were discussed, shedding light on the importance of transparent cost/benefit analyses in foreign policy decisions.
  3. Various political dynamics and implications surrounding the Ukraine situation, including corruption, global power struggles, and potential military actions, were analyzed.

It's time to call this World War III

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 56 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics Global Conflict Military Strategy International relations Geopolitics Foreign Policy
  1. The current situation is being compared to World War III, with serious threats to global peace. We need to recognize this and act to stop aggressors like Russia.
  2. Strength is crucial in dealing with Putin. History shows that he responds only to a strong defense, and if we show weakness, it could lead to bigger conflicts.
  3. The war in Ukraine affects not just Europe but also global security. If we abandon Ukraine, it could encourage other aggressor nations like China and Russia to pursue their goals, risking further instability.

The Curse of the Dispensation

America in Crisis • 99 implied HN points • 04 Jun 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History Politics Economy Society Foreign Policy
  1. Democrats shifted focus from the working class in favor of other constituencies like women and college students after a 1968 defeat
  2. The decline of Democratic dominance in 1968 was attributed to poor foreign policy choices like excessive military spending during peacetime
  3. Over time, holding onto a dominant party status can lead to complacency and eventual downfall, as seen in the transitions from the Roosevelt to Reagan dispensations

Ukraine Support Holds

Diane Francis • 699 implied HN points • 10 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion Military Aid Election Impact International relations Foreign Policy
  1. Support for Ukraine is strong among many countries, including the US and EU nations. Polls show that people want to continue helping Ukraine against Russia.
  2. Most Americans believe military aid to Ukraine is important, and a large majority oppose negotiations unless Russia withdraws first. This suggests a clear message that people want to see Ukraine win.
  3. Concerns about the security risks of helping Ukraine have decreased over time. Many European citizens also want stronger military ties and support for Ukraine as a united front against Russian aggression.

Trump the Arms Dealer

Eunomia • 353 implied HN points • 23 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Government oversight
  1. Trump enthusiastically supported selling weapons to anyone, regardless of their intended use
  2. During his presidency, Trump made deals with Saudi Arabia and the UAE instead of cutting off weapons sales
  3. Trump criticized others for supporting wars for profit, but he did the same thing while in office

Criminals welcome as US recruits foreign proxies to wage 'irregular war' on adversaries

Geopolitical Economy Report • 637 implied HN points • 18 May 23
🌍 World Politics Military operations International relations Foreign Policy Human Rights
  1. The US military recruits foreign fighters as proxies for irregular warfare but does not vet them for past atrocities.
  2. Special Operations Command plays a significant role in secretive shadow wars across the globe.
  3. US special operations forces have been active in the majority of countries worldwide, focusing heavily on irregular warfare.

Election Countdown, 240 Days to Go: The General Election Campaign Has Begun.

Breaking the News • 564 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Foreign Policy Policy Analysis
  1. The speech by Joe Biden at the State of the Union address effectively shifted audience focus and message from previous years.
  2. The speech avoided the typical laundry-list approach, presenting a more cohesive thematic structure to deliver key points.
  3. Biden's speech reflected a strong stance against Putin and Trump, aiming to motivate and connect with his own base rather than attempting to win over Trump's supporters.

The Genocide in Gaza and Its Enablers

Eunomia • 334 implied HN points • 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.

Trump and Ukraine: Best Case/Worst Case

Phillips’s Newsletter • 81 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Political Analysis
  1. Trump's opinions about Ukraine can change quickly. He may decide how to act based on what he feels benefits him at the moment.
  2. There are mixed feelings among Republicans about how Trump will handle Ukraine. Some support Ukraine, but others are more sympathetic to Putin.
  3. Trump has a history of distrust towards Ukraine and a preference for Russia. This is unlikely to change even if he becomes president again.

Blinken Is Failing the Test

Eunomia • 353 implied HN points • 11 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership Foreign Policy
  1. The idea of Blinken providing a reassuring projection of American leadership is not credible.
  2. Morale in the State Department is low under Blinken compared to previous administrations.
  3. State Department experts are being ignored as Biden and Blinken drive U.S. policy in a negative direction.

Powerful, but within the orbit of the empire

Global Inequality and More 3.0 • 724 implied HN points • 07 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Global order Hegemony Foreign Policy
  1. Subimperial powers have significant influence in their area while serving the imperial system.
  2. Australia exemplifies a subimperial power, aligning with the United States post-World War II.
  3. The global order includes subimperial, hegemonic, and vassal states, with economic incentives and strategic roles at play.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 04.02.2025

steigan.no • 7 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Affairs Government Agencies Political critique Elections
  1. USAID is facing internal conflicts and criticisms about its actions, leading to protests against its authority. The agency has been accused of acting independently and not responding to the U.S. government's directives.
  2. NATO is seen as a problem for Norway, with a call for the country to leave the alliance and adopt a peace-oriented foreign policy. The discussion emphasizes the need for a public movement against militarization and for better relations with Russia.
  3. The controversy surrounding aid to Ukraine highlights concerns about transparency in foreign aid. Ukrainian President Zelensky claims that much of the promised financial support has not arrived, raising questions about accountability for the funds contributed by other nations.

Israel's Hidden War -- Redux

Diane Francis • 539 implied HN points • 27 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Civil Rights Government Conflict Education
  1. There's a big divide in Israeli society between secular and religious people. This divide is causing serious issues that could lead to more conflict.
  2. The current government in Israel, guided by radical religious groups, has made decisions that have harmed the safety of its people, especially along the Gaza border.
  3. Education differences also play a role in this divide. Secular Israelis often receive a broader education, while religious Israelis focus more on scripture.

In Africa, Russia is playing the West like a fiddle

An Africanist Perspective • 573 implied HN points • 09 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Global South Sovereignty Foreign Policy International relations
  1. Russia's influence in Africa is hyped up in Western media compared to its actual economic and military ties with African states.
  2. African states respond to Russia based on their specific interests and not as puppets, often driven by the desire to access resources at lower costs, especially amidst economic constraints.
  3. African nations should be cautious not to overly rely on Russia militarily or economically, aiming to prioritize domestic sovereignty and economic growth by carefully considering policy decisions and avoid getting deeply entwined with Russia.

Links to Consider, 11/4/2024

In My Tribe • 227 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Economics Labor Market Management Industrial Policy
  1. The job market is changing due to AI taking over routine office tasks. However, more complex management roles might still require human skills.
  2. Some believe that good foreign policy relies more on talking than on action. Words can sometimes seem like solutions even when they aren't.
  3. Recent manufacturing job growth is happening in places less affected by international trade issues. Many manufacturing jobs are still not unionized, which means fewer protections for workers.

I've Got Hazel On My Mind.

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 30 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Strategy International relations Political Analysis Geopolitics
  1. The U.S. is struggling to maintain its global power and influence, especially after recent military moves in Syria. Many believe these actions are more of a bluff than a real strategy.
  2. Syria's leadership is seen as having outsmarted the U.S. and avoided additional bloodshed by strategically retreating from conflict with their military. This retreat highlights the complicated dynamics between the U.S., Russia, and Iran.
  3. With U.S. military recruitment dropping and challenges in fighting through allies, there is concern that America's military strength is weakening and it might lose its standing in international relations.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 05.02.2025

steigan.no • 6 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Political Accountability Military Affairs Government spending Intelligence Operations
  1. George Soros and USAID have collaborated for years, influencing political changes in countries like Ukraine. This partnership has raised questions about the motives behind foreign aid and its impact on democracy.
  2. Norsk aid (Norwegian aid) is deeply tied to USAID, and there are concerns about financial mismanagement and lack of transparency in how these funds are used. Critics argue this could be draining resources from Norway without effective oversight.
  3. In Denmark, the government's military spending may significantly increase, putting financial strain on families. Many believe this approach could lead to unnecessary conflict rather than security.

What Would Trump's Future Foreign Policy Look Like?

Eunomia • 294 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Continuity in U.S. foreign policy under a second Trump administration should not be seen as positive.
  2. Trump's foreign policy record was mostly characterized by continuity with existing policies.
  3. Despite being labeled a 'disruptor,' Trump's foreign policy was not drastically different from traditional Republican stances.

'World War 3 has already started' between US and Russia/China, argues French scholar

Geopolitical Economy Report • 697 implied HN points • 15 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Global Economy Military conflict Foreign Policy
  1. French scholar Emmanuel Todd argues that World War III has begun between the US and Russia/China due to the Ukraine proxy war.
  2. Todd points out that Russia's resilience against Western sanctions challenges the American imperial system and its hold on Europe.
  3. Todd criticizes the overreliance on GDP as a metric, highlighting the adaptive capacity of the Russian economy due to a significant role for the state compared to the US neoliberal economic model.

Updated! Here's Why, We Are Not On The Precipice Of WWIII.

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 36 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Strategy International relations Political Rhetoric
  1. The U.S. has been slowly increasing its military involvement in Ukraine, which some see as a form of 'mission creep'. This has led to fears of escalating tensions with Russia.
  2. Russia has developed advanced weapons that could change the balance of power, making it hard for the U.S. to respond effectively in a conflict. This might deter any first-strike nuclear action from both sides.
  3. Politicians in the U.S. often exaggerate the threat of nuclear war for political gain, but many believe that actual war is unlikely due to the principle of mutually assured destruction.