The hottest Foreign Policy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

Jimmy Carter, President and Citizen.

Breaking the News • 1603 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Jimmy Carter was very skilled at connecting with people from all walks of life. His ability to communicate and listen helped him build strong relationships during his presidency.
  2. Carter's foreign policy achievements are often seen in a better light than they originally appeared. He made significant contributions, even if they weren't always recognized at the time.
  3. The importance of storytelling in politics is crucial. Like Jimmy Carter, sharing our experiences and truths helps unite people and address common concerns for a better future.

The Kind Of Ceasefire Where One Side Keeps Firing

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1839 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The current ceasefire isn't really working because one side keeps attacking while the other is expected to stop. This creates an unfair situation where only one side is following the rules.
  2. There is a disturbing trend where violence seems to be getting more brutal and creative in tactics, which raises serious moral questions about the actions taken.
  3. Criticism of Israel is often unfairly labeled as antisemitism, but many people are simply responding to the actions of the state rather than holding prejudices against Jewish people.

La Elite Narcotraficante Está Lista Para Dirigir a Venezuela (con Moe Tkacik) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 53 implied HN points • 14 Jan 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. U.S. intelligence agencies and anti‑communist exile networks became deeply entangled with drug trafficking in Latin America, using narco‑operations to fund and advance covert geopolitical goals.
  2. Prominent politicians and allied leaders have praised or protected figures linked to the drug trade, showing a pattern where the drug war is enforced selectively to punish enemies and shield friends.
  3. The global war on drugs often functions more as a political and military tool than a public‑health response, producing dubious prosecutions, sanctions, and instability that harm ordinary people more than they stop drug flows.

Taliban In Afghanistan Bad, Al-Qaeda In Syria Good

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1769 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The West often views military actions differently based on who is doing them. For example, invading a country for security reasons is seen as wrong for Russia but accepted when done by Israel.
  2. The label 'terrorist organization' is often used by Western powers to justify their actions and military interventions, and it's seen as a tool to control the narrative rather than a factual designation.
  3. The world is becoming unpredictable, and many believe that anything can happen. This means there is hope for positive change, as circumstances can rapidly transform in unexpected ways.

When Presidents Show Backbone, Israel Caves

Spoils of War • 589 implied HN points • 28 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. U.S. presidents have historically influenced Israel's actions by showing backbone and making clear demands.
  2. Actions taken by U.S. presidents like Eisenhower and Carter have led Israel to comply with international resolutions.
  3. Threats of trade sanctions and aid cutoffs have been effective in pushing Israel to withdraw from occupied territories.
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China’s Germany watchers take stock of Berlin’s uneasy turn

Pekingnology • 98 implied HN points • 23 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Germany is facing deep domestic strains: political fragmentation, rising far‑right and new populist forces, and a government struggling to deliver policies, all of which fuel social unease.
  2. Germany is making a clear security pivot with big increases in defence spending, conscription and deployments, and a more securitised outlook that mixes tough rhetoric on China with economic pragmatism.
  3. The room for China–EU and China–Germany cooperation is narrowing as Europe increasingly frames China as a systemic rival and ties China policy to Russia and transatlantic dynamics, even though trade and two‑way investment remain substantial.

Just Say Ceasefire, Bernie

Discourse Blog • 1002 implied HN points • 30 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. A 'humanitarian pause' is not the same as a ceasefire - it's just a temporary stop in operations.
  2. Bernie Sanders is being criticized for supporting a 'humanitarian pause' instead of advocating for a ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza conflict.
  3. Many people, including politicians and activists, are calling for a ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza conflict.

Behavioural Geopolitics: What it means for the coming years

Klement on Investing • 7 implied HN points • 25 Feb 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Very powerful countries tend to feel more threatened and become more hawkish, which leads them to intervene militarily and economically even against weaker rivals.
  2. When checks on government power are weak, leaders can use state actions to benefit allies and big companies, increasing corruption and privileging private interests over the public good.
  3. Encouraging allies to rearm can make them more independent and confident, which may create new rivalries and strain old alliances, and could prompt deals or conflicts over strategic assets like semiconductors and Taiwan.

The enemy within

Comment is Freed • 112 implied HN points • 10 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The US National Security Strategy sides with nationalist 'Patriotic Parties' and raises alarms about demographic change, amounting to direct interference in European domestic politics.
  2. The NSS downplays Russia’s role as an aggressor in Ukraine and pushes for 'stabilising' relations and a quick peace without addressing justice, which could reward aggression and weaken European security.
  3. The document matters and must be taken seriously, but the administration is inconsistent and factional, so Europeans should judge actions over words and prepare for different possible US approaches.

Israel Keeps Finding New Ways To Play Victim While Committing Genocide

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1876 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Israel is struggling to maintain its victim narrative while facing serious accusations of genocide. It keeps inventing new stories to play the victim role.
  2. The media often uses the term 'pogrom' incorrectly, applying it to minor incidents involving Israelis instead of acknowledging real violence against Palestinians.
  3. Trump is considering both anti-war and pro-war figures for his cabinet, and there's concern about the influence of hawkish advisors in shaping future foreign policy.

The Mainstream Western Worldview Pretends The Global South Does Not Exist

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1913 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The mainstream Western view often ignores the Global South. It's like pretending billions of people don't exist and only focusing on issues that matter to the US and Europe.
  2. In politics and culture, we tend to think only about ourselves. We rarely consider how our comforts come from the struggles of people in other parts of the world.
  3. For a healthier and fairer world, we need to recognize and include everyone in our conversations and decisions. Ignoring others keeps us in a bad relationship with them.

The China-is-not-Russia Summit

Diane Francis • 879 implied HN points • 16 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The US and China are trying to improve their relationship to avoid conflicts and create rules for their economic competition. Both countries want to cooperate for their own benefits.
  2. China's economy is struggling, while the US is doing better, leading China to change its approach, especially after distancing itself from Russia. This change shows China's focus on economic connections over military alliances.
  3. During the summit, the leaders emphasized the importance of communication and addressing shared concerns. This effort aims to ease tensions and strengthen their crucial trading relationship.

Blinken Is Pushing For Ukrainian Teens To Die For US Hegemony

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1671 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken wants Ukraine to send younger soldiers, specifically teens, to fight in the ongoing war with Russia. This is concerning because many Ukrainians want peace instead.
  2. There's a feeling that those in power treat people as pawns, ready to send youth into danger for political goals. It seems very unfair and selfish.
  3. The article discusses a divide in leftist views on different conflicts, highlighting a split between those who understand the impact of US global policies and those who follow mainstream narratives.

Another Psychopath For US Secretary Of State

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1774 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The role of Secretary of State often attracts people with ruthless traits. This is because the job requires supporting aggressive foreign policies rather than focusing on peace.
  2. U.S. political parties, like Democrats and Republicans, often seem to oppose each other, but they usually agree on many harmful policies. They maintain this illusion of choice to keep people feeling like they have control.
  3. Both Donald Trump and Joe Biden represent similar types of political evil. The perception that Trump is unique is misleading; in reality, his actions are aligned with traditional Republican policies.

The Encampments (w/ Mahmoud Khalil and Michael Workman) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 101 implied HN points • 11 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The encampments were largely peaceful and united a diverse group of students calling for university divestment from companies tied to Israel, while the film shows most real violence came from pro‑Israel counter‑protesters and heavy police responses, not the protesters.
  2. University administrations prioritized PR, donors and security over student demands, inviting police and private guards to suppress protests, which eroded academic freedom and silenced dissent on campus.
  3. Organizers and filmmakers faced legal and institutional pushback — including detention and deportation attempts against activists and screening barriers for the film — so grassroots organizing, legal pressure, and continued public engagement are essential to keep the issue alive and defend free speech.

Ukraine Breakthrough

Diane Francis • 159 implied HN points • 03 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Ukraine is being allowed to use long-range missiles against targets in Russia, which could change the war's dynamics.
  2. This move is seen as significant for Ukraine's military strategy.
  3. The discussion on this topic reflects broader discussions about international support for Ukraine in the conflict.

What Unites AOC and Marjorie Taylor Greene?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 630 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. There's a growing coalition of people from different political backgrounds who are against U.S. involvement in the Iran war. They include progressive anti-Zionists, MAGA Republicans, and libertarians.
  2. Recent actions in Congress show bipartisan support for limiting presidential war powers, emphasizing that any military action should require approval from Congress.
  3. Both progressive and conservative lawmakers are worried about being dragged into another long conflict, highlighting a shared concern across the political spectrum.

Mamdani’s Clown Show Offers Its Opening Act

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 61 implied HN points • 07 Jan 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. He promised big changes on affordability and free transit, but a subway and bus fare increase right after he took office exposed a gap between his slogans and what actually happens.
  2. He focused on high‑profile, symbolic fights like protesting World Cup ticket prices without any real authority or concrete plan, which looks more like showmanship than problem‑solving.
  3. Appointments of housing activists who have criticized private property and a false claim about being "briefed" on a federal operation triggered backlash and suggest he’s prioritizing ideology and image over practical governance.

This Week in Canada: Mark Carney Pitches a Zionist-Palestinian State

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 579 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Mark Carney, the Prime Minister of Canada, is shifting Canada's focus from the U.S. to Europe in foreign policy. This change comes in response to tensions with the U.S., especially regarding trade issues.
  2. Carney’s administration proposes new speech rules aiming for clearer communication, which has stirred up discussion and controversy. He even suggested the idea of a Zionist-Palestinian state, which has caught attention.
  3. Toronto recently experienced very high temperatures, making the city decide it was too hot for swimming. This reflects how extreme weather is affecting daily life.

Stop Crying Over the China "Trap"

Pekingnology • 464 implied HN points • 02 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Many companies entered China's market willingly, and they benefited from it. The idea that they were tricked overlooks the mutual gains made in those deals.
  2. The narrative that China is tricking foreign firms is oversimplified and comes from a sense of entitlement by Western companies. Competition is just a natural part of business.
  3. Historically, many nations, including the U.S., have risen by learning from others. China's growth in technology is just another chapter in the story of global competition.

Ask us anything

Comment is Freed • 24 implied HN points • 06 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Paying subscribers can submit questions in the comments or anonymously by email, and answers are posted the following week though not every question is guaranteed a reply.
  2. The newsletter focuses on current politics and international affairs — covering UK government crises and elections, US–Iran tensions, Trump-related developments, the war in Ukraine, and related interviews and analysis.
  3. Most posts are paywalled; a paid subscription (about ÂŁ4.50/month or ÂŁ45/year) supports the work, gives full access, and the newsletter publishes roughly three times a week to a large readership.

The Dying Animal

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 36 implied HN points • 27 Jan 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The MAGA movement is both powerful and increasingly violent, but its aggressive overreach is alienating voters and creating political backlash that could cost the party in elections.
  2. Trump’s presidency has damaged America’s global reputation and shifted the GOP away from traditional conservative internationalism, yet much of this era’s political identity is tied to one man and may not survive him intact.
  3. Harsh domestic actions and nativist policies are causing real harm and weakening institutions, and while full authoritarianism seems unlikely in a large country, the damage and chaos could linger for years.

January 27, 2026

Letters from an American • 32 implied HN points • 28 Jan 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The killing of Alex Pretti by federal agents has sparked massive public anger and shifted the political balance, putting DHS funding and other appropriations at risk.
  2. Federal immigration and law-enforcement practices — including deaths in custody, wrongful deportations, and systematic collection of protesters' personal data — have fueled domestic outrage and international pushback over surveillance and abuse.
  3. The administration’s defensive, often misleading response and escalatory rhetoric has intensified calls for investigations, resignations, and impeachment, worsening the political and diplomatic fallout.

MAGA Meltdown?

Comment is Freed • 132 implied HN points • 25 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The president’s second term is failing on the economy and governance, with rising inflation, weaker growth, and unpopular policies that have driven approval ratings very low across many states.
  2. Young people and minority voters have swung back toward Democrats, and economic frustration helped Democrats win big statewide races, showing a clear electoral backlash.
  3. Most Republicans have tied themselves closely to the president out of fear of retribution, but growing defections and public frustration are creating dangerous faultlines in the party ahead of the midterms.

Revisiting the Iraq War

In My Tribe • 516 implied HN points • 03 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Cheney often bypassed bureaucracy to get the answers he wanted, which upset some people in the system. This approach can help leaders get clearer information instead of relying on filtered reports.
  2. The decision to invade Iraq wasn't made directly by any single person; instead, it was a gradual result of many different opinions and actions, much like an ant colony finding food.
  3. The lack of clear discussion and planning about the invasion led to confusion about goals and methods, which made it hard to understand the risks involved. This shows how disorganized decision-making can have serious consequences.

Denouncing Depravity

A Biologist's Guide to Life • 29 implied HN points • 01 Feb 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Personhood matters more than personal brand; people with platforms should choose doing the right thing over protecting followers or income.
  2. The Epstein files and the behavior of some ultra-wealthy people reveal deep corruption and potential national-security risks that demand accountability and legal investigation.
  3. We all have a moral duty to speak up and act instead of being bystanders, even if it costs followers, money, or reputation, because silence enables further abuse.

Gee, I Wonder Why Venezuela Is Authoritarian!

JoeWrote • 118 implied HN points • 03 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The U.S. has a long history of intervening in Latin America, often leading to the rise of authoritarian governments in places like Guatemala and Venezuela. These actions have created instability and pain for many people in the region.
  2. Venezuelan leadership has often responded with authoritarian measures as a way to protect the country from perceived external threats, especially from the U.S. This response highlights the complexities of governance under constant external pressure.
  3. Critics of the Venezuelan government, while pointing out valid issues, often overlook how American policies have shaped the current situation. The cycle of intervention and authoritarianism demonstrates how outside influences can heavily impact a nation's political landscape.

Commentator

Castalia • 339 implied HN points • 20 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The relationship between the US and Israel is strained, especially over the situation in Rafah. Netanyahu seems more focused on his political survival than on international alliances.
  2. The CIA has had deep involvement in Ukraine long before the full-scale invasion, which changes how we understand the war. Ukraine was actively seeking US support and sharing intelligence to strengthen its position against Russia.
  3. There's a new push in the US to ban TikTok due to national security concerns. This reflects a shift toward more government control over technology and the internet, especially regarding threats posed by foreign entities like China.

The Face At The Front Desk Changes, The Corporation Remains The Same

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1643 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Political parties in the U.S. may seem different, but they often serve the same goals. It's like using both your left and right hand in boxing to win the fight.
  2. Support for politicians often overlooks their consistent harmful actions, regardless of party affiliation. Many voters mistakenly believe one side will drastically change things for the better.
  3. The actions of powerful leaders are often driven by profit and power, rather than thoughtful decision-making. This leads to irrational policies that hurt people and the environment.

TGIF: I Serve at the Pleasure of Barbecue

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3315 implied HN points • 15 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Biden faced backlash for using the term 'illegal' but then claimed he didn't apologize: highlights the Biden administration's border philosophy and communication blunders.
  2. The Biden administration is releasing an additional $10 billion to Iran: shows the conflicting approaches within the administration's foreign policy.
  3. Elon Musk cancelled his partnership with Don Lemon on X/Twitter: illustrates that rich individuals like Musk don't take criticism well and can quickly change their minds.

The Geopolitical Monopoly Board: Venezuela, Ukraine, Iran, Cuba, Greenland, Canada, Taiwan, Somalia, Minnesota and The Blob (Part One)

Dr. Pippa's Pen & Podcast • 46 implied HN points • 14 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Global geopolitics is being portrayed as a strategic Monopoly board where major powers and smaller territories alike are contested pieces in a broader chess match.
  2. The central conflict is framed as an internal struggle over control of cash flows and influence—the so-called "Blob"—rather than a classic ideological or superpower war.
  3. There are allegations of coordinated interference through intelligence networks, NGOs, voting-machine systems, and billionaire funding that have shaped elections and policy, fueling deep mistrust between the U.S. administration and its European and Canadian allies.

This Is Not an Administration. This Is Not Even a Renaissance Court. This Is, Pure & Simple, a Chaos-Monkey House

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 476 implied HN points • 10 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Foreign policy decisions can change quickly and unpredictably, leading to confusion and instability for both allies and adversaries.
  2. The lack of a clear and consistent policy process means important decisions can be reversed without accountability, relying too much on one person's whims.
  3. When a government prioritizes personal loyalty over institutional expertise, it risks repeating the mistakes of past authoritarian regimes.

Talking Iran with The Judge

John’s Substack • 8 implied HN points • 27 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy
  1. A guest on the 'Judging Freedom' show discussed U.S. misadventures and interventions around the globe.
  2. The conversation focused mainly on Iran and the risks associated with U.S. policy toward that country.
  3. There was a clear hope that President Trump will avoid initiating military action or "pulling the trigger" against Iran.