The hottest Foreign Policy Substack posts right now

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Top World Politics Topics

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 09.10.2024

steigan.no • 7 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Affairs Political strategy Economic Policy Public Opinion
  1. BlackRock is using Italy to gain more influence in Europe. This shows how countries can become pawns in larger financial strategies.
  2. The Norwegian government is reducing financial support for electricity while planning to take a record dividend from the national grid operator. This suggests a focus on profits over helping people with high energy costs.
  3. There are hidden discussions in the West about ending the war in Ukraine. Many now realize that a compromise might be the best way forward to stabilize the region.

Hey Centrists — The Left Was Right

JoeWrote • 41 implied HN points • 23 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Economics Media Bipartisanship Critique
  1. Centrists often dismiss leftist viewpoints without consideration, but recent events show the left has been proven right on issues like American militarism.
  2. Recent events have validated leftists' critiques of American imperialism, such as the failure to stop Houthis in Yemen and the true motives behind military campaigns.
  3. Leftists have been proven right on issues like Israel's assault on Gaza and the cause of inflation, despite initial dismissal by centrist pundits and politicians.

On American War

The Radar • 39 implied HN points • 30 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conflict Veterans War history Foreign Policy
  1. Veterans often carry deep trauma and finding meaning in their suffering is a life-long journey.
  2. America's involvement in wars like Vietnam and subsequent conflicts reveal a pattern of costly misadventures fueled by misleading narratives and mismatched goals.
  3. The nation faces a critical need to engage in open, democratic debates about war and peace to break the cycle of perpetual conflict and the misuse of military force.

America's Fatal Flaw

Diane Francis • 259 implied HN points • 12 Jul 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy National Security International relations Government Cybersecurity
  1. There's a debate within the U.S. government about how to deal with Russia. Some think we should be tougher, while others seem to want to be more lenient, which could lead to more Russian aggression.
  2. The current U.S. strategy toward Russia is seen as weak. Past actions, like backtracking on sanctions, made Russia feel empowered and might encourage further bad behavior.
  3. America's foreign policy is struggling to understand Russia's true nature. Unlike during the Cold War, today's leaders often lack the expertise or experience to effectively counter Russian threats.
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Less Than Meets the Eye

Unpopular Front • 33 implied HN points • 12 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Russian Politics Foreign Policy Geopolitics Nationalism Revolution
  1. Tucker Carlson's interview with Putin revealed a mix of propaganda and lack of a clear narrative for the war in Ukraine, showing the fragility of Russia's post-Soviet political project.
  2. Putin's discourse reflects a fixation on 'special services' and a belief in Western encroachment, connecting to fears rooted in past political upheavals in the region.
  3. The war in Ukraine is seen as a way for the Russian ruling class to consolidate power domestically amidst growing opposition, tying foreign policy to regime stability.

Commentator

Castalia • 79 implied HN points • 11 Dec 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests Authoritarianism Foreign Policy Defense Spending Artificial Intelligence
  1. China has seen major protests, but the government is cracking down hard on them. Even though some COVID rules are easing, many are getting arrested or questioned for protesting.
  2. The recent protests in Iran are also facing harsh government pushback, leading to executions and continued unrest, highlighting a struggle for freedom in both countries.
  3. There's growing concern about how technologies like AI and military robots are being used. Many people worry that these advancements could lead to dangerous situations and ethical issues.

The Cold War in Hot Places

Dr. Pippa's Pen & Podcast • 26 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Foreign Policy Global Conflicts
  1. The superpowers are engaged in a modern Cold War in various hotspots around the world, such as Africa, Latin America, and the South Pacific.
  2. Russia is increasing its influence in Africa through initiatives like the new Africa Corps, offering regime security in exchange for resources, and strategic barter deals like providing grain to gain favor.
  3. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has expanded to involve fights in regions like Sudan as both sides try to secure resources and support from African nations.

The Dilemma of the Pro-Palestinian Voter

Gideon's Substack • 28 implied HN points • 26 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Political strategy
  1. Arab-American and Muslim-American voters may not naturally align solely with left-wing ideologies and may have diverse concerns beyond foreign policy.
  2. For single-issue activists, it can be rational to have a strict litmus test and not support any candidate who does not meet that criteria.
  3. The approach of pushing a single issue to promote progressive causes may inadvertently strengthen an extremist and dysfunctional opposition, which is not ideal for a broad left-wing movement.

Commentator

Castalia • 39 implied HN points • 26 May 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Conflict Studies Political theory Foreign Policy
  1. Putin's decision to invade Ukraine is linked to a shift in his beliefs and Ukraine's move towards the West. This brought the two into conflict.
  2. Many think Putin saw a chance to act when he believed the West, especially the U.S., was weak after events like the Afghanistan withdrawal.
  3. Despite the current challenges, Putin had a long period where he appeared strong on the world stage, influencing his risky decisions.

From the River to the Sea, the Choctaw Will Be Free

The False Consensus Effect • 19 implied HN points • 20 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict Human Rights Government Foreign Policy Political corruption
  1. American political system is corrupted by foreign influence through funding and lobbying, disenfranchising the population.
  2. The concept of freedom and democracy is compromised by government corruption and corporate power.
  3. Critically examining religious and political ideologies is crucial to understanding and challenging oppressive structures.

Annotated Essay: What MLK’s “Beyond Vietnam” Speech Can Teach Us About Supporting Palestine In An Election Year

JoeWrote • 23 implied HN points • 29 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice Foreign Policy Civil Rights Movement
  1. Dr. King's choice to speak out against injustices even at the risk of backlash can guide us in making tough decisions in current times.
  2. Criticism of foreign policies can be interconnected with domestic issues, as seen through King's analysis of the Vietnam War and its impact on anti-poverty programs.
  3. It's crucial to prioritize universal justice and values over political alliances, as staying silent on important matters can betray the core principles of movements.

Chinese scholars respond to Trump 2.0

Beijing Channel • 3 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Trade policy Diplomacy
  1. Trump's second term may lead to a more aggressive stance against China, especially regarding tariffs and trade policies. This could create more friction between the two countries.
  2. Experts believe Trump's approach will result in decreased cooperation on global issues like climate change. There might be fewer dialogues and exchanges between the U.S. and China.
  3. Overall, the international landscape has changed since Trump's first term. There's a worry that his unpredictable nature could escalate tensions and lead to conflicts, especially over Taiwan.

Commentator

Castalia • 59 implied HN points • 29 Nov 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Civil Rights Authoritarianism Media Critique Public Health
  1. People in China are bravely protesting against the government's zero-Covid policy and calling for freedom. This shows that even under strict authoritarian control, citizens can still express their desire for change.
  2. In Iran, people are risking their lives to protest against a brutal regime, and there are reports of significant violence against protestors. This highlights a growing unrest and the possibility of change despite the regime's strong grip.
  3. The war in Ukraine continues with heavy casualties and no clear progress, while the Russian military is drawing recruits from vulnerable populations. This situation raises questions about the treatment of soldiers and the toll war takes on communities.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 12.10.2024

steigan.no • 4 implied HN points • 12 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Public Health Legislation Political parties
  1. Farmers in France are very unhappy and may protest again soon. They are frustrated with bad weather and low crop yields, feeling they have nothing to lose.
  2. The EU plans to provide Ukraine with financial support, but there are worries about the future of that support due to potential changes in U.S. politics and budget cuts in Europe.
  3. Slovakia is considering banning mRNA vaccines, as a government official claims they pose dangers and questions the reality of the COVID pandemic.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 11.10.2024

steigan.no • 4 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Human Rights Political Analysis International relations
  1. Ukraine is facing serious challenges as they struggle to push back against Russian advances. There's growing concern that they may need to make tough decisions regarding peace talks and territorial concessions.
  2. There's a noticeable decline in the number of insects in many places, affecting the ecosystem. Experts suggest that various factors, including land use and climate change, could be causing this decline.
  3. Some journalists are facing arrest for reporting on sensitive issues, showcasing concerns about freedom of the press in conflict zones like Israel and Lebanon. This raises questions about the safety and rights of reporters.

The End of American Hegemony

America in Crisis • 19 implied HN points • 14 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Hegemony International Conflict Alliances Foreign Policy
  1. American hegemony is facing internal conflicts and challenges, with declining ability to deter global conflicts.
  2. The concept of a potential future Global War involving major powers suggests the US may surrender hegemony without a strong fight due to divergent interests among American elites.
  3. Considering the changing dynamics globally, it might be in the US's interest to strategically withdraw from certain regions and relinquish hegemonic power in a controlled manner.

On OpenDemocracy: We need to have an honest conversation about ‘foreign agent’ laws

Discomfort zone • 19 implied HN points • 30 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy Global relations Political Discourse
  1. The conversation around 'foreign agent' laws needs to be more honest and inclusive, focusing on equality and democracy.
  2. There are logical and moral inconsistencies in the current discourse that need to be addressed.
  3. Aim for new, constructive norms for funding civil society sectors in other countries.

Finnish news recap, week 15: 24 questions edition

Ahpocalypse Now • 19 implied HN points • 18 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Government Foreign Policy Security Autonomy Leadership
  1. The government formation process in Finland involves sending 24 questions to other parties to find potential partners.
  2. The Åland demilitarization issue is a long-standing and complex topic due to historical conflicts between nations.
  3. Political leadership changes are happening in Finland, including resignations and potential successors being discussed.

On Imperialism

Nathan’s Substack • 19 implied HN points • 06 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Imperialism BRICS Foreign Policy Allies Global Economy
  1. Empires often make enemies without realizing it, despite thinking they have many friends.
  2. Economic sanctions by one country can lead to unexpected consequences, pushing other nations to protect or distance themselves from the imposing nation's financial systems.
  3. Nations should be cautious in imposing their values on others, as historical empires have unintentionally faced negative outcomes by doing so.

Navalny's Snowball Revolution

Diane Francis • 179 implied HN points • 28 Jan 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests Activism Foreign Policy Political Leaders Corruption
  1. Teenagers in Russia protested in freezing temperatures for the release of Alexei Navalny, showing strong support despite the risk of arrest and intimidation.
  2. Navalny is a courageous figure fighting against Putin's regime, having survived assassination attempts and ongoing imprisonment while exposing corruption.
  3. The global response to Navalny's situation includes potential sanctions against Russia, highlighting the international importance of his fight for democracy.

In Defense of Biden and Trump

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 18 implied HN points • 15 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Foreign Policy Defense
  1. Both Joe Biden and Donald Trump are facing challenges, but some believe Biden's age isn't insurmountable.
  2. Matt Bennett argues that Biden's age brings experience and wisdom, while Trump's age shows chaos and anger, which could impact the election.
  3. Elbridge Colby believes Trump's stance on NATO is justified due to threats from Russia and the need to focus on China, urging NATO members to meet defense spending commitments to enhance European security.

Trump-Biden Continuity In Foreign Policy Is Normal

Gideon's Substack • 19 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy Iran Afghanistan Russia Israel
  1. America has a slow-moving foreign policy landscape, and changing course is challenging during turbulent times.
  2. Biden's foreign policy shows continuity with Trump's decisions, following precedents and existing consensus.
  3. The Biden administration faced challenges in anticipating events tactically, especially in Afghanistan and Ukraine.

The Great New Schism on the Left

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 17 implied HN points • 12 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Elections Foreign Policy Activism
  1. Blue Liberals and Palestine Leftists are two distinct factions within the Left, existing in separate universes and showing significant ideological differences.
  2. Blue Liberals prioritize electoral politics, fear Trump's threat to democracy, and focus on mainstream media criticism, while the Palestine Left is more concerned about issues like Gaza and the Israeli occupation.
  3. The chasm between Blue Liberals and Palestine Leftists is primarily driven by disagreements over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, leading to tensions over voting decisions and priorities in the upcoming elections.

March 7, 2024

Letters from an American • 12 implied HN points • 08 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Presidential campaign Foreign Policy Party Dynamics
  1. The Republican Party is solidly behind Trump, with previous contenders suspending their campaigns and key figures endorsing him.
  2. President Biden continues to emphasize unity and reaching out to a broad range of supporters, while also highlighting the contrast between MAGA Republicans and other groups.
  3. Biden delivered a strong State of the Union address outlining key challenges such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, domestic issues like the attack on the Capitol, and the need to address climate change and income inequality.

The Breaking of the Israel Consensus

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 11 implied HN points • 15 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Political Figures Israel Democratic Party Public Opinion
  1. Chuck Schumer called for new elections in Israel, highlighting a shift in his stance towards the Israeli government.
  2. The pro-Palestine movement influenced Schumer's speech, signaling a growing impact on American politics.
  3. Schumer's stance reflects a changing landscape in American foreign policy towards Israel, paving the way for potential shifts in the Democratic Party.

To celebrate Obama Day, here are Barack’s greatest hits (wars, coups, slavery, sanctions, al-Qaeda…

Geopolitical Economy Report • 119 implied HN points • 14 Jun 20
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Presidency Foreign Policy Human Rights Scandals
  1. June 14th is considered 'Barack Obama Day' by some in the US.
  2. Obama's administration oversaw controversial decisions like wars, coups, and arming al-Qaeda.
  3. Critics argue that policies from past administrations laid the groundwork for current global issues.

Resources for Understanding the Russian Invasion of Ukraine and Risks of Instituting a No-Fly Zone

Humanities in Revolt • 39 implied HN points • 16 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics Ukraine Foreign Policy
  1. A 'no-fly zone' in Ukraine could trigger a war between nuclear-armed nations, having catastrophic consequences.
  2. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is unjust and immoral, with accounts of attacks on civilians emerging.
  3. It's crucial to support anti-war movements in Russia, understand the implications of a no-fly zone, and be aware of geopolitical contexts shaping conflicts.

February 13, 2024

Letters from an American • 10 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Foreign Policy Impeachment Elections Security
  1. President Biden is emphasizing the importance of supporting Ukraine and passing a national security supplemental bill.
  2. There is bipartisan support in the Senate for funding Ukraine, but there are challenges in the House, particularly related to far-right opposition.
  3. Former President Trump's influence is causing divisions within the Republican Party and impacting crucial legislative decisions.

Killing Navalny

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 4 implied HN points • 28 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Ukraine US Politics Foreign Policy International relations
  1. Vladislav Davidzon and Claire Berlinski discussed political dynamics around Republicans' stance on Ukraine and highlighted concerns about inexperience in American and Eastern European political leaders.
  2. They shared concerns about the complexity of the situation in Ukraine and challenges in influencing US senators to support Ukraine, despite potential benefits.
  3. They also discussed the decline of spiritual values in the West, the impact of the Ukraine conflict on Western culture, and the instability of American foreign policy affecting allies.

Why Interventionism Isn’t a Dirty Word

American Dreaming • 3 HN points • 11 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Interventionism Foreign Policy Military Democracy Geopolitics
  1. Interventionism, once a common practice for the US, has fallen out of favor with the public over the years due to costly wars, military failures, and lack of success in conflicts.
  2. Public opinion in the US has shifted towards anti-interventionism, with many Americans opposing military interventions to stabilize conflicts, promote democracy, or protect business interests abroad.
  3. While some interventions have been catastrophic failures, not all military actions should be dismissed, as there have been instances like World War II and Kosovo where intervention led to positive outcomes.

Interview on "How States Think" with Anatol Lieven in The American Conservative

John’s Substack • 3 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The interview discussed a book co-authored by Sebastian Rosato and John J. Mearsheimer on the rationality of states in foreign policy.
  2. Anatol Lieven was part of the interview and addressed the topic of 'How States Think: The Rationality of Foreign Policy'.
  3. The full title of the book focused on understanding how states make decisions in the realm of foreign policy.

Israel and Hamas—through a builder’s lens

Building the Builders • 4 implied HN points • 24 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Israel Hamas Conflict Philosophy Foreign Policy
  1. The author delves into the complex relationship between Israel, Gaza, and personal connections to the conflict.
  2. A podcast conversation with a philosopher and a foreign policy analyst centers around constructive conclusions about the situation in Israel and Gaza.
  3. The author highlights personal connections to Israel, the impact of their products on her life, and the country's significance as a beacon of civilization.