The hottest Foreign Policy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics
Phillips’s Newsletter 196 implied HN points 17 Feb 25
  1. Trump and Putin seem to be aligning on Ukraine, especially concerning the idea of holding elections there. This cooperation marks a notable change from their prior stances.
  2. Before the election, Trump and his associates didn't prioritize Ukrainian elections in their plans, but now they insist that Ukraine must hold elections soon.
  3. Many believe that Trump's push for elections aims to weaken Ukraine and support Putin's interests, leading Ukrainians to rely more on European assistance than American help.
The Dossier 232 implied HN points 05 Feb 25
  1. Trump uses flexible and aggressive negotiating strategies, breaking past norms to get better deals for America. He believes in leveraging various tools like bluffing and urgency during negotiations.
  2. He does not shy away from using strong tactics, even against traditional allies, to ensure America gets a good deal. This includes imposing tariffs or making bold statements to create pressure.
  3. Trump's approach to foreign affairs is pragmatic and strategic, leaving his negotiating partners off-balance. He focuses on achieving the best outcome for the United States, regardless of previous political ideologies.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 2633 implied HN points 10 Dec 24
  1. Syria's recent change in leadership happened despite the efforts of the Biden administration, not because of them. Many believe the U.S. played a minor role in this shift.
  2. President Biden claims that the weakening of Assad's supporters like Iran and Russia is due to his policies, but many disagree with this view. There is a belief that these countries have lost power for other reasons.
  3. Israel's actions in the region have been more impactful than U.S. influence. Some argue that Israel took bold steps that went against what the U.S. wanted, contributing significantly to the change in Syria.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 2768 implied HN points 07 Dec 24
  1. H.R. McMaster believes it's important for Americans to see all sides of Donald Trump's presidency, not just the good or the bad.
  2. McMaster shares insights about his experiences during Trump's first foreign trip, highlighting how Trump thinks and makes decisions.
  3. He's hosting a book club discussion about his book 'At War with Ourselves,' focusing on his time as National Security Adviser and the challenges faced during that period.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2989 implied HN points 01 Dec 24
  1. The situation in Syria involves complex political maneuvers, and the U.S. has played a role in fostering chaos there. It's important to question the official narratives about conflicts instead of accepting them at face value.
  2. Many people see through lies about one conflict, like Gaza, but still believe the stories told about another, like Syria. It's vital to maintain curiosity and seek the truth across all situations.
  3. The way homelessness is treated reflects larger societal issues. Instead of hiding homelessness from view, we should confront the underlying problems and injustices that cause it.
Phillips’s Newsletter 193 implied HN points 14 Feb 25
  1. Trump is making concessions to Russia that could hurt Ukraine. He has suggested letting Putin back into the G7 and keeping Ukraine out of NATO.
  2. The U.S. seems to be giving Russia a lot of leeway during a difficult time for their military. This support appears to help Putin when he needs it most.
  3. Critics say calling Trump's actions appeasement is too simple, as he may be actively supporting Russia in troubling ways for Ukraine's future.
Glenn’s Substack 1099 implied HN points 19 Aug 24
  1. NATO's involvement in Ukraine started with the 2014 coup, which led to increased tensions with Russia. This has shaped the current conflict, making it more than just a territorial dispute.
  2. Russia's responses to NATO's actions have been cautious, as they fear escalating to nuclear war. They are carefully considering how to react without triggering a larger conflict.
  3. The narrative in Western media portrays Russia as the sole aggressor, ignoring the complexities of NATO's role. This can limit discussions on diplomatic solutions and foster more hostility.
All-Source Intelligence Fusion 529 implied HN points 20 Jan 25
  1. Enrique de la Torre, a former CIA station chief, has now joined a lobbying firm with ties to the Trump administration. This shows a trend of government officials moving to private sector roles.
  2. De la Torre criticized the CIA's new AI system for profiling world leaders, calling it inadequate compared to his ideas. This highlights ongoing discussions about the effectiveness of technology in government work.
  3. His views on U.S. foreign policy, especially in Latin America, suggest he will push for strong stances against countries like Cuba and Venezuela in his new role. This aligns with certain hawkish perspectives in U.S. politics.
Letters from an American 22 implied HN points 20 Feb 25
  1. The U.S. is shifting its support away from Ukraine and leaning towards Russia, which is causing concerns about international alliances. This change in support reflects the interests of former President Trump rather than the American people's wishes.
  2. Negotiations between the U.S. and Russia have started, but Ukraine is being excluded from these talks. This raises questions about Ukraine's future sovereignty and whether peace can be achieved without their involvement.
  3. American military and political leaders are worried that Trump's approach is weakening NATO and could lead to further Russian aggression in Europe. There is a call for stronger unity among European nations to counter this threat.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 1802 implied HN points 17 Dec 24
  1. Israel and Trump's administration seem eager to attack Iran now that Syria's air defenses are out of the way. This could lead to airstrikes aimed at stopping Iran from developing nuclear weapons, despite lack of evidence for such activities.
  2. There's a belief that many political movements can be fake and serve to maintain the current power structures instead of creating real change. This suggests that people's frustrations are often redirected back into the system rather than helping them fight against it.
  3. The extreme wealth of billionaires is often seen as irrational. Instead of acting for the common good, their wealth accumulation is driven by personal issues and inner pain, harming society in the process.
Comment is Freed 92 implied HN points 16 Feb 25
  1. Peace talks between key leaders are starting, but Ukraine's concerns are being overlooked. They're worried that negotiations might not prioritize their interests.
  2. Putin appears to want a victory in negotiations but is only being offered a draw. This creates tension as the goals of Russia and the US don’t fully align.
  3. The state of Russia's economy is fragile due to the ongoing war, which could influence Putin's decisions in peace talks. He might seek a favorable deal now while the US administration is somewhat supportive.
Astral Codex Ten 13283 implied HN points 05 Nov 24
  1. Elections can feel like a wild rollercoaster ride, creating a lot of anxiety and drama for everyone involved. Many people are so tense about the outcomes that it can affect their mental health.
  2. Prediction markets offer a way for people to bet on outcomes, but they can be unreliable. Sometimes, one big bet can skew results, leading to people misinterpreting the chances of candidates.
  3. In the end, elections are more than just picking leaders; they're a moment where everyone feels the weight of the future. It's a reminder of our shared hopes and fears, no matter our backgrounds.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 1941 implied HN points 11 Dec 24
  1. The term 'terrorist organization' is often used politically, depending on whether a group benefits or harms U.S. interests.
  2. Groups that fight against the U.S. or its allies usually get labeled as terrorists, while friends of the U.S. can commit violence without that label.
  3. This inconsistency shows that the label is more about controlling narratives than about actual behavior.
ChinaTalk 340 implied HN points 21 Jan 25
  1. The tech right is becoming a powerful group within the Trump administration, focused on deregulation to improve the business environment in America.
  2. Nuclear weapons could greatly stabilize regions like East Asia, and countries like Japan and South Korea should consider developing their own for better security.
  3. Taiwan should leverage its tech industry to become a key supplier of defense products, like drones and batteries, to enhance its economic stability and defense against China.
Diane Francis 899 implied HN points 19 Aug 24
  1. Sudan is currently experiencing a brutal civil war that has caused many civilian deaths and destruction, especially in its capital, Khartoum.
  2. Media attention has mostly focused on other conflicts, like the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, which means Sudan's crisis is often overlooked.
  3. Russia, under Putin, is involved in Sudan by providing mercenaries and exploiting its resources, worsening the humanitarian situation.
Fisted by Foucault 185 implied HN points 04 Feb 25
  1. The Substack mentioned has a modest audience but has substantial influence, especially within political circles. It has even attracted subscribers from multiple White Houses.
  2. Darren J. Beattie, a controversial figure, has been appointed to a significant role in the U.S. State Department, showing a shift toward a more aggressive political stance.
  3. Beattie's hiring signals a new direction for the current administration that prioritizes a bold and unconventional approach to foreign policy.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 1769 implied HN points 10 Dec 24
  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.
Gideon's Substack 21 implied HN points 24 Feb 25
  1. Trump sees Ukraine as a failing business, not a cause to support. He wants to cut his losses and move on rather than help Ukraine.
  2. Russia's relationship with China is strengthening as a result of the war. This shows that America's efforts to weaken Russia have not paid off.
  3. Europe needs to find common ideals and reasons to fight together. Without that, they risk being stuck in a cycle of paying off threats without resolving the bigger issues.
C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. 18 implied HN points 13 Feb 25
  1. Trump has lost a lot of power in his dealings with Russia, making him appear weak. This puts Russia in control of peace talks and future negotiations.
  2. The U.S. economy is struggling, similar to how Rome fell in the past. There are calls to cut military spending and close bases abroad to improve the situation.
  3. Trump is in a difficult position, being blamed for economic problems and conflicts. Both Democrats and Republicans seem to want him to take the fall for these issues.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 1839 implied HN points 03 Dec 24
  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.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2337 implied HN points 20 Nov 24
  1. The Biden administration's actions are increasing tensions with Russia at a dangerous time. This is concerning because it risks a conflict involving nuclear powers.
  2. Many Ukrainians now support peace talks to end the war with Russia. This shows that the desire for continued fighting may not reflect the views of those most affected by the conflict.
  3. People often overlook the ongoing struggles in places like Gaza until they can assign blame to a particular leader. The reality is that suffering is happening now, regardless of who is in charge.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 1671 implied HN points 05 Dec 24
  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.
Noahpinion 21470 implied HN points 11 Mar 24
  1. Trump's recent actions regarding TikTok have stunned many conservative China hawks, revealing potential ulterior motives and alliances.
  2. The debate on forcing ByteDance to sell TikTok involves concerns about data privacy, propaganda dissemination, and national security, highlighting the app's significant influence.
  3. The situation with TikTok exemplifies broader international conflicts, potential financial influences, and political interplays that impact policymaking and national security strategies.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 709 implied HN points 03 Jan 25
  1. The idea of the U.S. buying Greenland isn't new, and Trump has talked about it several times, suggesting it's important for national security.
  2. Greenland has historical ties to U.S. security interests, especially since World War II, when it helped protect against threats in the North Atlantic.
  3. Ambassador John Bolton believes there's a strong case for the U.S. to pursue this acquisition, although he thinks Trump's approach has complicated things.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2021 implied HN points 22 Nov 24
  1. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli leaders for war crimes, but similar actions against Western officials have not occurred. This shows a lack of accountability for powerful nations.
  2. There is ongoing criticism of U.S. lawmakers for their inadequate responses to violence in Israel and their support of arms sales, even when these arms are used offensively.
  3. Recent statements from U.S. officials suggest a willingness to protect allies in conflict, raising concerns about a broader disregard for international law and human rights.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2551 implied HN points 06 Nov 24
  1. The Democratic Party has lost control after the elections, especially in key areas like Michigan, showing that support for war policies isn't popular. Many people are unhappy with how the party handled issues related to genocide and lack of progressive values.
  2. The election results suggest that both major candidates might continue harmful foreign policies. With Trump winning, expectations for positive change are low since he has a history of siding with powerful interests that support controversial actions.
  3. The overall message is that people shouldn't expect much good to come from U.S. elections. Instead, those wanting change should keep fighting against the ongoing abuses of power, as the struggle remains the same regardless of who is in office.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2435 implied HN points 08 Nov 24
  1. Trump's actions as president showed he supported wars and the deep state. Many people think he might change, but past behavior indicates he likely won't.
  2. Supporters often believe they are backing an anti-war leader, but in reality, they are choosing a president who continues harmful agendas. Voting for mainstream candidates won't change the system.
  3. The president is not a friend to the people; they serve powerful interests, and cheering for them doesn't fight against the real issues in society.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2249 implied HN points 11 Nov 24
  1. Biden's main legacy is marked by war and violence, overshadowing any positive contributions he made during his career.
  2. He has actively supported military actions and failed to pursue peace options in conflicts like Ukraine, increasing the risk of nuclear war.
  3. His administration is seen as enabling severe human rights abuses, especially in the Middle East, which many believe tarnishes his overall reputation.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 681 implied HN points 01 Jan 25
  1. Iran's position has changed significantly, with its chances of becoming a nuclear state reduced greatly over the past year.
  2. Groups like Hezbollah and Hamas, which once seemed strong, are now facing pressure and even agreeing to ceasefires.
  3. The new president has a chance to take action against Iran and its allies, but it's uncertain if he will seize this opportunity.
Today's Edition Newsletter 10593 implied HN points 30 Jan 24
  1. President Biden issued a threat to Iran-backed militias following the deaths of US soldiers in a drone attack.
  2. Campaign developments show Trump's desperation as economy performs well under Biden and Nikki Haley criticizes Trump.
  3. MAGA extremists are in panic over the possibility of Taylor Swift endorsing Biden, showing fear of young voter motivation.
steigan.no 6 implied HN points 03 Mar 25
  1. Rødt, a political party, has decided to support a significant increase in military spending. They want to strengthen national defense even though this ties them to NATO.
  2. A recent meeting in London highlighted the challenges European leaders face in supporting Ukraine. There was talk of military aid, but many leaders are worried about over-relying on the U.S. for support.
  3. UK Prime Minister Starmer expressed a willingness to send troops to Ukraine as part of a peace agreement, but this idea has faced rejection from Russia and raises concerns about escalating tensions.
Doomberg 5608 implied HN points 16 Dec 24
  1. The U.S. has tightened sanctions on China, particularly in the semiconductor industry, to weaken its tech growth. This move aims to limit China's access to advanced chip manufacturing technology.
  2. In response, China has imposed its own export restrictions, targeting materials critical for the tech industry in the U.S. This indicates that both countries are in an escalating trade war.
  3. China's efforts to develop its own semiconductor capabilities are showing significant progress, raising concerns about its growing self-sufficiency in this critical industry.
JoeWrote 189 implied HN points 06 Feb 25
  1. Snoop Dog and Tom Brady will be seen in a Super Bowl ad that promotes standing up against hate. However, the underlying message is seen as supporting controversial views related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
  2. The Foundation to Combat Antisemitism, behind the ad, is accused of misusing the fight against hate to silence criticism of Israel. Critics believe it manipulates social justice themes to push a political agenda.
  3. Concerns are raised about how alleged antisemitism is measured and reported by FCAS, suggesting their methods might mislead the public. The focus on antisemitism may overshadow awareness of the struggles faced by Palestinians.
Nonzero Newsletter 417 implied HN points 21 Jan 25
  1. Countries often fall into the trap of wanting total security, believing they need to eliminate all threats. This mindset can lead to aggressive actions that can create more danger instead of less.
  2. The United States, despite being surrounded by friendly countries and oceans, acts as if it faces threats everywhere. This leads to wars and military actions in many parts of the world, often missing opportunities for peaceful solutions.
  3. Pursuing too much security can be just as risky as having too little. This approach can worsen global tensions and even lead to significant conflicts, as seen in historical examples.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2044 implied HN points 12 Nov 24
  1. Donald Trump's new national security advisor is Mike Waltz, who has a history of supporting aggressive military action. This indicates a continuation of a hawkish approach in foreign policy.
  2. Elise Stefanik, known for her pro-Israel stance and restriction of free speech, is set to be the U.S. ambassador to the UN. This reflects a likely alignment with previous commitment to military and political agendas.
  3. Marco Rubio is expected to be the next secretary of state, further indicating that Trump's administration may not prioritize reducing military conflicts despite supporters' hopes for a more peaceful approach.
Phillips’s Newsletter 235 implied HN points 02 Feb 25
  1. Trump's team seems to be saying things that match Russian ideas about the war. This suggests they might be planning a deal that might not help Ukraine much.
  2. There's evidence that Ukraine is managing to strike Russian oil facilities, which can hurt Russia's economy. This shows Ukraine's strength, even without significant support from the U.S.
  3. Some political figures are spreading negative views about Ukraine's chances, even as the situation on the ground shows that Russia is facing difficulties. This creates a misleading narrative about Ukraine's future.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 1774 implied HN points 19 Nov 24
  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.
Fisted by Foucault 206 implied HN points 26 Jan 25
  1. The US needs to take Taiwan's defense seriously to prevent China from taking over. Taiwan is crucial for the US's credibility and is seen as a key part of stopping China's rise as a superpower.
  2. Trump's focus on acquiring Greenland shows the US's need for strategic resources. Greenland has valuable minerals and its location is important for military surveillance against threats from Russia and China.
  3. Funding for think tanks largely comes from special interests and foreign governments. This can affect the objectivity and independence of their research, raising concerns about who really influences US foreign policy.
Phillips’s Newsletter 109 implied HN points 12 Feb 25
  1. Donald Trump's plan for Ukraine hasn't changed much over the past six months. It mainly focuses on a peace deal that favors Russia.
  2. According to this plan, Ukraine wouldn't be allowed to reclaim its territories while Putin is in power. This limits Ukraine's chances of recovery.
  3. The proposed plan also keeps Ukraine out of NATO and suggests some easing of sanctions on Russia, which could hurt Ukraine in the long run.