The hottest Foreign Policy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics
Eunomia 491 implied HN points 27 Jun 23
  1. Many republicans are addicted to military intervention, as shown by growing enthusiasm for a military option in Mexico.
  2. Aggressive policies like military interventions in Mexico are likely to backfire and harm relationships with other countries.
  3. Proposals for military action in Mexico are concerning and should not be dismissed as mere campaign tactics.
Eunomia 275 implied HN points 19 Jan 24
  1. There's always a choice when deciding whether to use force or not, and usually, there are better options than resorting to force.
  2. The U.S. won't likely compel Houthi compliance through force; attacking Iranian targets would worsen the conflict.
  3. Taking military action that you expect will make things worse is both stupid and wrong.
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Karlstack 216 implied HN points 24 Oct 24
  1. Right-wing anti-Zionism is growing in the U.S., which is surprising to many who only see it on the left. Some conservatives are starting to criticize Israel more openly.
  2. Different groups within the American Right, like paleoconservatives, have always questioned Israel’s influence on U.S. foreign policy. They feel that supporting Israel harms America's interests.
  3. Recent events, especially conflicts in the Middle East, have intensified debates on Israel within the conservative movement, creating divisions between traditional pro-Israel conservatives and those who adopt a more isolationist perspective.
Geopolitical Economy Report 478 implied HN points 16 Mar 23
  1. Honduras has shifted its diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China, leaving just 12 small countries supporting Taiwan separatists
  2. The majority of the global population resides in countries recognizing the People's Republic of China while Taiwan is acknowledged officially only by a handful of countries
  3. The decision by Honduras to break ties with Taiwan and embrace China is largely driven by economic factors, especially China's offered assistance in dealing with Honduras' significant economic challenges
KERFUFFLE 53 implied HN points 02 Nov 24
  1. Gaza is facing severe destruction and human suffering. Many reports describe civilians being killed and families being torn apart during the conflict.
  2. The scale of military retaliation from Israel is unprecedented, causing not only immediate casualties but also long-term issues like famine and homelessness.
  3. This conflict involves global implications, especially for Americans, as U.S. support influences the situation, and we may have to deal with the consequences of these actions in the future.
The Cosmopolitan Globalist 7 implied HN points 17 Jan 25
  1. The recent hostage deal includes a 42-day ceasefire, during which Israel will withdraw from specific areas of Gaza while facilitating the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
  2. Trump's involvement seems to have pressured Netanyahu into accepting terms he initially rejected, leading to criticism from both Israeli right and left about the potential ramifications of the deal.
  3. While the deal allows for the safe return of hostages, there are concerns that it may strengthen Hamas's position and capability to wage further attacks in the future.
Dr. Pippa's Pen & Podcast 37 implied HN points 02 Dec 24
  1. There was a possibility for peace in Ukraine, with leaders agreeing to negotiate, but actions by the US and UK changed that.
  2. The introduction of long-range weapons by the US and UK means they are now seen as direct targets by Russia, escalating the danger.
  3. Many experts agree this war is unwinnable for Ukraine, so continuing the fight raises serious concerns about a larger conflict, including nuclear risks.
Castalia 299 implied HN points 12 Dec 23
  1. Public opinion plays a huge role in international conflicts, often influencing how countries act. It's surprising how much leaders consider public sentiment when making decisions about wars like those in Gaza and Ukraine.
  2. American universities are facing tension between free speech and protecting students. The recent actions of university presidents show a struggle to balance these principles, leading to calls for free speech policies amid accusations of hypocrisy.
  3. The complex nature of global power dynamics means that decisions made can cause significant harm, yet they may be seen as necessary in political terms. This understanding challenges the naive view that nations can act purely on moral grounds.
steigan.no 7 implied HN points 28 Jan 25
  1. Rwanda is expanding into the Kivu provinces of the DRC, with support from Western countries. This has led to significant control over mineral resources in the area.
  2. The German economy is struggling due to reduced growth and increasing global competition, especially from Chinese car manufacturers. Many companies are laying off workers and there seems to be no clear plan for recovery.
  3. The partnership between Russia and Iran is strengthening as both seek to bypass Western sanctions. This agreement may create economic ties that could affect global trade and politics.
Seymour Hersh 44 implied HN points 20 Nov 24
  1. Israel is pushing many people from the north of Gaza to the south while bombing continues. This has led to a big crisis for those who can't leave.
  2. There are plans for more control over Gaza and the West Bank, with a strong push from Israel's religious right. They want to change the situation to eliminate the idea of a two-state solution.
  3. Violence against Arab communities in the West Bank is increasing, making daily life very difficult for many families there.
Seymour Hersh 43 implied HN points 21 Nov 24
  1. The history of genocide influences current Israeli actions, leading to justification for extreme measures. Many Israeli leaders do not question this past influence.
  2. Some Israelis are unhappy with their government's actions, particularly Prime Minister Netanyahu, and believe he should face consequences for his corruption.
  3. The ongoing conflict impacts families directly, with many having served in the military and living under constant tension.
Bastiat's Window 393 implied HN points 13 Jun 23
  1. Presidential historians tend to rate Woodrow Wilson highly and Warren Harding poorly, but recent perspectives are starting to shift.
  2. Woodrow Wilson's racist tendencies and damaging actions have overshadowed his accomplishments.
  3. Warren Harding, despite being perceived as in over his head, managed to achieve significant positive outcomes during his presidency.
Diane Francis 799 implied HN points 20 Feb 23
  1. Biden's visit to Kyiv showed strong support for Ukraine and highlighted Putin's lack of a winning strategy. It emphasized that Ukraine is standing strong against Russian aggression.
  2. Russia's military is facing huge losses and has not successfully won a battle in a long time. Poor leadership and overwhelming Ukrainian defenses are crippling Russian forces.
  3. Ukraine aims to reclaim all its territories, including Crimea, to ensure its long-term safety. There's international support for Ukraine's military actions to target Russian positions in Crimea.
steigan.no 5 implied HN points 02 Feb 25
  1. The war in Ukraine is showing signs of collapse for Ukraine's front lines. This highlights the challenges that Western military support has faced.
  2. African countries are distancing themselves from France, with many ending military agreements and calling for the removal of French troops. This marks a significant shift in former colonial relationships.
  3. Trump's trade policies could destabilize the global economy by harming the ability of countries like Mexico to pay off debts. This could lead to broader economic issues and potential defaults.
Gideon's Substack 9 implied HN points 16 Jan 25
  1. A new cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas is in place, but it's hard to believe it will last long. There are doubts about whether all sides will honor it.
  2. Both sides are claiming victory despite significant losses, but neither has achieved meaningful goals for lasting peace. The situation remains tense and complicated.
  3. The incoming president could influence future negotiations, but there are concerns about what they can really offer to either side, especially given the unrest in the West Bank.
Faridaily 373 implied HN points 17 Feb 23
  1. Robert Shlegel, a former Russian politician, spoke out against the war in Ukraine after years of silence.
  2. Shlegel expressed regret for past decisions and is unafraid of facing consequences for his current actions.
  3. He believes that change in the current regime in Russia may only occur over time due to internal and external pressures.
C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. 18 implied HN points 14 Dec 24
  1. The Syrian Army is still fighting and has not surrendered to opposing groups backed by the US. This indicates their determination to maintain control.
  2. There is ongoing violence from the HTS terrorists against unarmed Syrian citizens, which is being shared on social media. This situation shows the serious threats faced by ordinary people in Syria.
  3. The US's involvement in Syria is viewed as a declining empire facing challenges at home, suggesting a possible shift in global power dynamics.
Sinification 176 implied HN points 09 Feb 24
  1. A second term for Biden may mean a more stable relationship with China, but also potential challenges like increased competition and pressure on Chinese scientific innovation.
  2. A second term for Trump could ease external strategic pressure faced by China, but it might lead to a tougher stance on China and increased complexity in economic and security rivalry.
  3. The Trump administration's policies might reduce some external strategic pressure on China, create more space for international alliances, and exert less pressure on China in the ideological field compared to the Democrats.
QTR’s Fringe Finance 36 implied HN points 20 Nov 24
  1. The Biden administration's recent approval for Ukraine to use long-range missiles against Russia raises concerns about escalating tensions. This change from previous policy seems sudden and could lead to serious conflict.
  2. There are worries that the Biden administration might be intentionally creating chaos for the incoming Trump administration, particularly regarding peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.
  3. The overall direction of U.S. foreign policy under Biden has caused anxiety, with some fearing it may push the country towards a larger conflict, possibly even World War III before the transition happens.
Seymour Hersh 45 implied HN points 07 Nov 24
  1. Many voters preferred Trump over a flawed Democratic candidate. They want a change in direction, especially regarding foreign policy.
  2. The past Democratic leadership choices are criticized for lacking strong vice presidential candidates. This may have weakened their political position.
  3. There’s a belief that Trump may persist in some of Biden's policies, particularly regarding support for Israel, despite wanting to change the approach towards Ukraine.
Policy Tensor 334 implied HN points 27 Feb 23
  1. The Biden administration is combining dovish domestic policies with a muscular foreign policy, particularly against Russia and China.
  2. The Inflation Reduction Act includes significant tax credits for energy transition and corporate investments, aiming to drive a sustainable energy shift.
  3. The administration's approach in foreign policy, particularly regarding Ukraine and China, is raising questions about the effectiveness of the strategy and potential risks in escalating tensions.
God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger 65 implied HN points 17 Jan 25
  1. People often only speak out against wrongdoing when it's safe for them to do so. This can lead to many being silent until it's too late to change anything.
  2. Historical wrongs and crimes can come back to haunt societies and countries. Actions taken for power and wealth don't just disappear; they often return to affect those who enabled them.
  3. The ongoing conflict and loss of life in places like Gaza show that history often repeats itself. The consequences of violence and neglect are felt long after the immediate events.
steigan.no 7 implied HN points 23 Jan 25
  1. The EU's energy policies are causing political tension in Norway, particularly with the Senterpartiet party threatening to leave the government if certain energy proposals pass.
  2. Germany's economy is struggling due to high energy costs and the transition to green energy, but the arms industry is booming because of ongoing military conflicts, especially in Ukraine.
  3. India has become the world's third-largest economy by purchasing power, outpacing Japan and showcasing significant shifts in global economic power.
John’s Substack 10 implied HN points 10 Jan 25
  1. Tony Blinken is facing criticism over his role as Secretary of State, especially regarding his foreign policy decisions. Many believe he is struggling to defend his actions.
  2. The conversation touches on Israel's plans to expand into neighboring territories, which has raised concerns in the international community.
  3. There are discussions about the significant influence of the Israel lobby on American politics, highlighting the power dynamics at play.