The hottest Foreign Policy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics
steigan.no 5 implied HN points 29 Jan 25
  1. Norway plays a crucial role in supplying resources to the EU, particularly natural gas, which makes it an essential partner for European energy security.
  2. There's concern that without strong negotiations, Ukraine's existence could be threatened, highlighting the urgency of peace talks with Russia.
  3. A new AI model from China has been developed that challenges the US's dominance in technology, raising questions about the future of artificial intelligence development.
Geopolitical Economy Report 498 implied HN points 22 Nov 22
  1. The 'rules-based order' is essentially a 'Western order', with the US and Europe dominating international institutions like the UN, World Bank, and IMF.
  2. There is concern in Europe about the US engaging in economic warfare against China, which could lead to a new cold war. Europe does not want to be forced to pick sides.
  3. It's important to understand and consider the interests of other major global stakeholders like China, India, and Brazil in creating a more balanced world, rather than maintaining Western hegemony.
The Dossier 284 implied HN points 07 Mar 24
  1. President Biden plans to deploy American troops to Gaza to build a port, risking their safety in a dangerous war zone.
  2. The decision to involve the military in Gaza construction raises concerns over the misuse of resources and lack of Congressional oversight.
  3. Political motives, such as appealing to voters in crucial swing states, may be a driving force behind the deployment of troops in Gaza.
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ChinaTalk 296 implied HN points 14 Feb 24
  1. What leaders say matters - whether it's during speeches or impulsive tweets, it's important to take them seriously.
  2. High-level engagement is crucial in US-China relations - having Presidents engage directly can ensure important messages are communicated.
  3. Strategic ambiguity in foreign policy may need to be revised - particularly in the context of US commitment to defend Taiwan.
An Africanist Perspective 376 implied HN points 22 Dec 22
  1. Africa's growing population and demographic shift will increase its geopolitical importance in the future.
  2. African countries must focus on building strong states and state capacity to ensure physical safety, order, and effective regional cooperation.
  3. African leaders should be clear on their policy priorities, understand foreign actors' motivations, keep options open for partnerships, and promote healthy competition within Africa to advance the region's interests.
The Chris Hedges Report 310 implied HN points 21 Jan 24
  1. Biden's policies towards Israel and the Middle East are influenced by advisors with a skewed view of the Muslim world.
  2. Biden and his inner circle are criticized for being incompetent and misguided in their approach to international affairs.
  3. The Biden administration's strategies in the Middle East ignore realities on the ground, perpetuating suffering and risking escalation.
steigan.no 8 implied HN points 13 Jan 25
  1. The rise of a police state is seen in countries like Germany, where activists face increasing crackdowns, showing how governments can use security concerns to limit freedoms.
  2. In Romania, thousands protested against the annulment of elections, highlighting public frustration over perceived corruption and manipulation in democratic processes.
  3. There's a growing discussion around the influence of think tanks in politics, with new databases revealing funding sources that affect how policies are shaped and who benefits from them.
steigan.no 5 implied HN points 25 Jan 25
  1. Norway's government is planning to spend more money on the war in Ukraine, causing public concern due to rising living costs and public service cuts at home.
  2. Donald Trump expresses interest in collaborating with China and Russia on nuclear disarmament, but there are doubts about the feasibility of this proposal.
  3. There are ongoing discussions about Israel's military occupation in Lebanon and its impact on the local population, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region.
westafricaweekly 19 implied HN points 01 Dec 24
  1. Experiencing the death of a child up close can deeply impact one's understanding of life and priorities. It shows the harsh realities of struggling families in difficult situations.
  2. The struggles in Nigeria highlight a bigger issue of outside influences affecting the country. Sometimes, foreign actions can lead to negative changes in the lives of many people.
  3. The journey of fighting for change can feel lonely and difficult. Despite feeling outnumbered, taking a stand for what is right can lead to personal growth and awareness.
Fisted by Foucault 311 implied HN points 15 Jan 24
  1. A crisis of competency is looming due to the erosion of meritocracy in decision-making processes, particularly in the US, impacting institutions like the FAA.
  2. The UK's subordinate role to the USA, known as 'Atlanticism' and the 'Special Relationship,' raises questions about the country's autonomy and benefits from the alliance.
  3. The case of Israel facing genocide allegations at The Hague highlights global divisions in support, with countries like the US and Germany rejecting the accusations while others, mainly from the Islamic world, show solidarity.
Letters from an American 16 implied HN points 09 Dec 24
  1. Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria has fallen after over a decade of civil war, leading to excitement and celebrations in the streets. This change opens up hope for a new future for Syria's people.
  2. The U.S. is taking actions to prevent ISIS from becoming stronger in Syria now that Assad is gone. They hit many ISIS targets to ensure that group doesn't regain power.
  3. The loss of Assad shows that no dictator is safe forever. It gives people hope that change is possible, both in Syria and in other places with similar regimes.
Thinking about... 121 implied HN points 15 Oct 24
  1. Voting in the upcoming US election is important for supporting democracy in Ukraine. The choices made in America can affect Ukraine's future and its struggle against the Russian invasion.
  2. Ukrainian resistance is seen as a key sign of democratic strength in the current decade. Their fight has allowed others, including Americans, to recover from crises and participate in democratic processes.
  3. The livestream event with Liev Schreiber aims to raise awareness about Ukraine and encourage people to vote. Schreiber’s involvement brings more attention to the Ukrainian situation and the need for democratic participation.
Diane Francis 639 implied HN points 05 Dec 22
  1. There are serious concerns about funding for Ukraine as some American lawmakers are against sending more money. This shows that support for Ukraine is facing challenges both in the U.S. and Europe.
  2. There is a push for confiscating Russian assets, estimated at hundreds of billions, to help fund Ukraine's reconstruction. Many believe Russia should be held accountable for the costs of the war it started.
  3. Legal frameworks are being discussed in various countries to enable the seizure of Russian assets, but action is needed urgently to support Ukraine's defense against Russia's aggression.
steigan.no 6 implied HN points 18 Jan 25
  1. Chad may join the Sahel alliance, a group formed by Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso aiming to improve security and development in the region.
  2. The U.S. faces a potential debt crisis as its national debt reaches historical highs, leading to concerns about future spending on important services and defense.
  3. There are ongoing discussions and criticisms surrounding the impact of COVID-19 vaccinations in India, particularly related to reported excess mortality during the vaccination rollout period.
steigan.no 5 implied HN points 22 Jan 25
  1. The current political leaders are promising to ensure stable electricity prices, which many people doubt given past experiences.
  2. There is ongoing tension in Syria regarding Kurdish autonomy, with the Syrian government firmly rejecting any plans for it.
  3. Recent developments suggest a shift in the geopolitical landscape, particularly with new agreements between Russia and Iran that could affect future conflicts in the region.
steigan.no 6 implied HN points 17 Jan 25
  1. Yemen continues to attack US warships in the Red Sea, showing ongoing military tensions in the region.
  2. Trust in government institutions is declining in Norway, reflecting a broader concern about the state of democracy.
  3. Many hydrogen projects are struggling due to lower demand, highlighting challenges in the transition to renewable energy.
Thinking about... 350 implied HN points 03 Mar 24
  1. Mike Johnson's actions as Speaker of the House are enabling Russian aggression in Ukraine and risking turning the world towards tyranny
  2. Ukrainian resistance is crucial in halting genocide and preventing nuclear proliferation
  3. American assistance to Ukraine is essential in supporting democracy, preventing catastrophe, and maintaining global stability
Pieter’s Newsletter 199 implied HN points 24 Nov 23
  1. Geert Wilders and his Party for Freedom decisively won the Dutch elections, showing dissatisfaction with the current government.
  2. Wilders ran a fairly moderate campaign focusing on social-economic issues and immigration.
  3. The outcome represents a radical change in the Netherlands, but not necessarily a dramatic or irreversible one.
Pekingnology 64 implied HN points 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.
steigan.no 6 implied HN points 16 Jan 25
  1. Trump is planning to reshape American foreign policy and control over territories like the Panama Canal and Greenland, showing a strong nationalist agenda.
  2. The war in Ukraine is having serious consequences for its youth, with proposals to lower the recruitment age amidst a dire manpower situation.
  3. Israeli and Hamas have reached a ceasefire deal, with significant implications for both sides as they navigate the aftermath of prolonged conflict.
I Might Be Wrong 10 implied HN points 25 Dec 24
  1. Syria is now seeing a leadership change that many believe is an improvement over the past. People are surprised that the new group might actually be better than what was previously in charge.
  2. Hezbollah and Hamas, two major groups in the region, are facing serious setbacks. There's a feeling of relief as these groups become less powerful and more fearful.
  3. The situation with Iran's proxy groups, like the Houthis, is still tense. Their attempts to provoke Israel seem reckless and dangerous without solid backing.
God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger 70 implied HN points 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.
steigan.no 8 implied HN points 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.
steigan.no 5 implied HN points 19 Jan 25
  1. Many are worried about how governments might deal with future pandemics. They want better plans to handle health crises than what happened during COVID-19.
  2. A recent investigation found that the BBC did not adequately report on the UK's military support for Israel's actions in Gaza, raising concerns about media transparency.
  3. There is a growing sense that society is becoming more controlled and less free, reminiscent of George Orwell's '1984', with instances of censorship and the monitoring of public opinions.
Wang Xiangwei's Thought of the Day on China 196 implied HN points 03 Apr 23
  1. China's leaders are working hard to reassure investors amid economic challenges.
  2. There is skepticism surrounding China's commitment to its reform and opening up policies.
  3. Recent measures suggest China is addressing concerns about legal protections for entrepreneurs.
ChinaTalk 207 implied HN points 01 Feb 24
  1. The organizational design of the NSC leads to crushing burdens for midlevel and senior staffers.
  2. Working in government is demanding and takes a toll on health, thus requiring a steady influx of talent.
  3. National security decisions require trust-building among various stakeholders and can be uniquely challenging due to high stakes and limited bandwidth.
steigan.no 7 implied HN points 07 Jan 25
  1. Yemen continues to launch missile attacks on Israel, promising to keep the pressure until the Gaza conflict ends. This ongoing conflict highlights the complex dynamics in the region.
  2. Justin Trudeau announced his resignation, reflecting backlash against his leadership during challenging times. His term saw significant controversies, including handling of pandemic measures and international relations.
  3. Amidst reports of human rights violations, the U.S. is set to approve a large arms sale to Israel, raising concerns about its impact on the ongoing violence and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
eugyppius: a plague chronicle 204 implied HN points 12 Feb 24
  1. Trump expressed impatience with NATO members like Germany who don't meet spending targets, causing backlash from German politicians.
  2. There's skepticism around the real purpose and benefits of NATO, with some questioning the alliance's role in preventing wars.
  3. Trump's NATO comments sparked strong reactions globally, highlighting the complex dynamics of international alliances and security.
Gideon's Substack 21 implied HN points 12 Nov 24
  1. Trump's new foreign policy team includes several individuals known for their hawkish views, indicating a potential aggressive stance in international relations.
  2. There is uncertainty about Trump's actual foreign policy direction, as his decisions may lack a clear strategy and could change unpredictably.
  3. While some argue Trump's unpredictability could deter threats, it also leads to confusion about America's true intentions and commitments on the global stage.
Castalia 179 implied HN points 19 Sep 23
  1. Many Democrats are unhappy with Biden and don't think he's the right choice for 2024. They feel like there should be other candidates running against him, but the Democratic establishment is holding back potential challengers.
  2. Support for Ukraine is critical, especially with the possibility of a Trump victory. If Trump wins, he may reduce U.S. support for Ukraine, which could seriously affect the war and global stability.
  3. Elon Musk has become a powerful figure, almost acting like a second government. His influence raises concerns about the relationship between wealthy individuals and public institutions, suggesting that we need to rebuild boundaries to protect democratic processes.
Diane Francis 639 implied HN points 08 Aug 22
  1. Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan angered China and made them show military force, but it also reminded other Asian countries to be more prepared. She spent only 19 hours there, which some see as a token gesture.
  2. China's response included military drills and cancelling talks with the U.S., but there were no serious threats. The visit didn’t lead to a major conflict, highlighting that China is more focused on its own internal issues.
  3. Pelosi's trip was seen as a win politically in the U.S., showing support for Taiwan. Despite China’s strong rhetoric, many analysts agree that the situation isn’t as dire as it could have been.
steigan.no 6 implied HN points 10 Jan 25
  1. Trump is pushing for the U.S. to take control of Greenland, seeing it as important for national security and resources. Greenland has valuable minerals and is strategically located for trade routes.
  2. There is a serious conflict between U.S.-backed groups and Turkey-backed groups in Syria. This fighting is causing many casualties, highlighting the area's ongoing struggles and the importance of water resources.
  3. Concerns are growing in Europe about their influence, especially if the U.S. threatens allies like Denmark. This situation makes European nations feel vulnerable, as they rely heavily on the U.S. for security.
John’s Substack 15 implied HN points 30 Nov 24
  1. Trump's foreign policy decisions seem different from his campaign promises, especially regarding the Ukraine war.
  2. There's ongoing discussion about Israel's issues and claims of anti-Semitism in American institutions.
  3. The Judge's podcast offers an alternative perspective to mainstream media, which is seen as failing the public recently.
Beijing Channel 5 implied HN points 13 Jan 25
  1. The relationship between China and the U.S. is seen as a long-term strategic competition, similar to the Cold War, with both sides having deep-rooted distrust of each other's intentions.
  2. Populism is on the rise in both the U.S. and globally, shifting priorities from globalization to economic security and creating potential challenges in international cooperation.
  3. While there may be intense competition in economic and technological sectors, the likelihood of direct military conflict between China and the U.S. remains low, as both sides seem to prefer dialogue and self-restraint.