The hottest Foreign Policy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

In Syria, US "learns" that it has deployed 1,000+ more troops

Aaron Mate • 170 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The US has secretly increased its troop presence in Syria by over 1,000 soldiers. This means there are more American troops than the public was previously told.
  2. This increase is happening as Syria is figuring out its future after the Assad regime. It's a complex situation that impacts the region.
  3. The Pentagon is now claiming it has 'learned' about these additional troops, which raises questions about transparency in military operations.

Two steps backward

Comment is Freed • 126 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Trump's meetings often feel like a drama, with him at the center trying to create the best storyline. If something isn’t working, he may just drop it and move on to another idea.
  2. Dealing with real-world politics is tricky and can take a long time, unlike in a soap opera where things happen quickly. Negotiations involve many people who want their own say.
  3. The U.S. administration's relationship with Ukraine can shift quickly, and the past week's discussions show a mix of friendly and tense moments.

When conspiracy theorists make foreign Policy

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 9 implied HN points • 19 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The new national security strategy is dangerously self-defeating and could weaken the country’s security and global position.
  2. A conspiracy-driven, cult-like loyalty to leadership is shaping foreign policy and lets risky or destructive decisions go unchallenged.
  3. The public reaction shows broad alarm and highlights the need for open scrutiny and accountability to prevent reckless policies from taking hold.

Why I won't vote for Donald Trump or Kamala Harris in the 2024 election

Michael Tracey • 201 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The author believes that both Donald Trump and Kamala Harris are not suitable candidates for president in 2024. They feel detached from the idea of voting for major party candidates they don't support.
  2. There is frustration with how media and commentators have not critically engaged with Trump's record while he campaigns again. The author thinks most critiques focus on dramatic or superficial issues rather than serious policy analysis.
  3. The author values foreign policy highly when deciding how to vote, feeling that the U.S.'s global influence means leadership choices need to be carefully considered for their international impact.
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The Curious Case of Austin Tice

The Dossier • 167 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Austin Tice is a U.S. Marine and journalist who went missing in Syria over 12 years ago, and the last evidence of him being alive was a video from 2012.
  2. The Biden Administration believes he is alive, but there is little public evidence to support this claim, creating confusion about his situation.
  3. Despite efforts from various U.S. administrations, clear information about Tice's whereabouts or condition remains elusive, and many hope for answers as the conflict in Syria evolves.

A Little Bit of Everything

Fisted by Foucault • 180 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The US is seeing some major changes in its foreign policy due to a new incoming administration, which could complicate the situation in Ukraine. This transition may affect how the US interacts with Russia and its allies.
  2. Recent arrest warrants by the ICC for world leaders, including Israel's Prime Minister, have raised questions about the fairness of international justice and America's role in it. This has made the US look hypocritical to other countries.
  3. Germany's economy is struggling, with job cuts and company shutdowns indicating a larger issue. Many Germans feel their country isn't what it used to be, leading to potential shifts in political support.

Overcoming the underwhelming history of America's Africa Policy

An Africanist Perspective • 138 implied HN points • 04 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy
  1. America's Africa Policy has been hindered by persistent bad habits and missed opportunities, such as neglecting to leverage connections with the large Black population for strategic alliances.
  2. There have been successes in US-Africa relations, like President George W. Bush's PEPFAR and various commercial initiatives, but the policy needs to prioritize state-building, support developmental agendas, and streamline objectives.
  3. To enhance US-Africa relations, it is crucial to align policy with African institutions, cultivate a strong domestic pro-Africa constituency, and acknowledge the region's significance in the global context.

Seeking long war in Ukraine, Biden approves long-range strikes into Russia

Aaron Mate • 186 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Biden has allowed Ukraine to use long-range missiles, even though he was worried about it before. This decision marks a big step in the ongoing conflict with Russia.
  2. Biden has privately expressed concerns that Ukrainian President Zelensky is asking for too much military support, fearing it could escalate to a larger war.
  3. With Trump set to take over soon, Biden seems to be making these choices to solidify his stance on the Ukraine situation before leaving office.

President/Puppet

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 13 implied HN points • 26 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Trump has deep financial and political ties to Russian interests, with decades of money and contacts suggesting he has functioned as a Kremlin asset.
  2. Many of his policies—including a Ukraine “peace plan”—align with Moscow’s goals, weakening Ukraine and U.S. alliances while strengthening Russia’s strategic position.
  3. Those policy choices and rollbacks of health, environmental, and democratic safeguards erode American institutions and global stability, so urgent public accountability and protest are called for.

The Finnish Presidential Election 2024 - a short overview

Ahpocalypse Now • 58 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The Finnish Presidential Election involves nine candidates and may go to a second round if no one gets over 50% of the votes.
  2. The President of Finland serves as a moral leader, unifying figure, and representative in high-level international meetings.
  3. The top contenders in the election include Jussi Halla-aho, Pekka Haavisto, and Alexander Stubb, each with unique backgrounds and potential outcomes.

Economist Michael Hudson explains inflation crisis and Fed's secretive $4.5 trillion bank bailout

Geopolitical Economy Report • 438 implied HN points • 08 Jan 22
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Economist Michael Hudson explains the global inflation crisis, pointing out the flaws in how inflation is measured in the US
  2. The Federal Reserve's $4.5 trillion bank bailout violated regulations and was directed towards big banks such as JP Morgan Chase and Citibank
  3. China and Russia are working on creating independent financial systems to reduce reliance on the US-controlled financial system

Panic in the Israel Lobby

John’s Substack • 17 implied HN points • 14 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Russia is currently winning the war against Ukraine with effective strategies. Ukraine is facing growing problems that seem very hard to resolve.
  2. The discussion included distressing topics, such as society's acceptance of violence in Israel against Palestinians, which raised serious moral questions.
  3. There's a struggle within the Israel Lobby to manage negative perceptions of Israel, especially related to public figures like Tucker Carlson, who criticize their actions.

Talk Tough & Carry a Little Stick

John’s Substack • 7 implied HN points • 03 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Trump talks tough and keeps a "tough guy" image, but his military actions have been limited pinpricks that avoid dragging the U.S. into another forever war.
  2. Peace negotiations over Ukraine are largely Kabuki theater for public opinion, while the real contest is on the battlefield where Russia currently holds the advantage.
  3. Taiwan is a dangerous flashpoint in East Asia, but a full-scale war seems unlikely soon because neither side would win and both therefore have strong incentives to avoid fighting.

The Myopia of Heroism

Moral Understanding • 98 implied HN points • 23 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The myopia of heroism focuses on saving visible victims but can disregard the broader consequences.
  2. Rational compassion suggests considering costs and benefits in decision-making to help others.
  3. Empathy is highlighted as a biased emotion, while rational compassion encourages thoughtful, reasoned help.

Commentator

Castalia • 119 implied HN points • 20 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Negotiations regarding the Ukraine war may soon become urgent as both sides face limits in achieving their military goals. This could lead to discussions on a potential compromise to end the conflict.
  2. The origins of COVID-19 remain controversial, with scientists previously pressuring each other to dismiss the lab-leak theory despite believing in its possibility. This reflects a larger issue of scientific communication and public discussion.
  3. The recent Supreme Court ruling on affirmative action challenges the Democratic Party's approach and calls for a reevaluation of values around fairness and merit in education, possibly paving the way for a new direction.

JJM vs. Kishore Mahbubani

John’s Substack • 5 implied HN points • 15 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy
  1. John J. Mearsheimer and Kishore Mahbubani appeared together on Tom Switzer’s podcast "Switzerland" on December 21, 2025.
  2. They focused on the rise of China and debated how the United States should respond to that challenge.
  3. They also covered a range of other geopolitical issues, speaking as friends and intellectual rivals.

Wang Jisi on U.S. society, foreign policy, & China-U.S. relations

Pekingnology • 75 implied HN points • 23 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The U.S. is seeing a shift in demographics, with minority groups growing faster than the white population. This change could affect the country's political landscape in the future.
  2. Trump's approach to immigration is complex and may not significantly stop illegal immigration. The U.S. is unlikely to become closed off completely due to its reliance on immigrants for economic growth.
  3. China and the U.S. still have areas for cooperation, especially in trade and technology, despite their rivalry. Both countries benefit from maintaining some level of engagement.

EXCLUSIVE: Donald Trump Is Indisputably the Co-Author of the Israeli War Against Iran—and His Iran Plot is Easily the Most Significant Betrayal of His MAGA Voters Yet

Proof • 60 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Donald Trump is believed to have played a role in planning the current war in Iran. This goes against his supporters' views of avoiding new foreign conflicts.
  2. Many supporters of Trump, known as MAGA voters, feel betrayed by his actions regarding foreign wars. They expected him to prioritize not getting involved in such conflicts.
  3. The situation raises questions about trust and loyalty among Trump's voter base, as the evidence suggests he has contradicted their core beliefs.

Mastermind: Gary Kasparov on the Global Leadership Vacuum

The Octavian Report • 8 implied HN points • 23 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy
  1. There is a global leadership vacuum and short-term politics are weakening democracies and international institutions, which lets extremists and rivals gain influence.
  2. Authoritarian leaders operate like poker players, using secrecy, chaos, corruption, and tactical provocations to undermine NATO, the EU, and democratic norms instead of playing a transparent long-term game.
  3. The remedy is strong, early deterrence and renewed American-led moral and strategic leadership with long-term planning, because if leaders don’t act the vacuum will be filled by hostile actors.

Risky Business: Ian Bremmer on Political Risk, Russia, North Korea, and Trump

The Octavian Report • 8 implied HN points • 23 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Political risk is now the primary global uncertainty, with higher chances of direct military clashes between major powers and a broader geopolitical slowdown.
  2. The current U.S. presidency increases unpredictability and erodes traditional guardrails, raising the risk of accidental conflicts while also making unusual diplomatic outcomes, like a deal with North Korea, more conceivable.
  3. Cyber attacks and other non-nuclear threats are growing and hard to deter or attribute, and the old rules-based global order is fragmenting into more regional, thematic, or multi-stakeholder systems.

Die Linke is back

Comment is Freed • 113 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Die Linke made a surprising comeback in the recent German elections, gaining more votes than expected. This shows that there is still a significant interest in their policies despite their historical challenges.
  2. The new German government will need to figure out how to increase defense spending without going against the debt rules. This could be tricky and may require support from parties like Die Linke, which traditionally opposes higher military budgets.
  3. There is a growing realization in Germany about the need for strong defense capabilities, especially after changes in U.S. foreign policy. This might lead to unusual alliances in politics as different parties look for solutions.

Updated! Trump Bombs Iran!

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 60 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Trump's decision to bomb Iran could lead to serious consequences for his reputation and safety.
  2. There is a belief that the U.S. government and Israel are working closely together, and this bombing might be a distraction from other issues.
  3. If the situation escalates, Americans might react strongly against Trump and the government, calling for major changes in leadership.

Weekend Update #108: Ukrainian Ranged Strike is Authorized--But so far is Limited.

Phillips’s Newsletter • 167 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Ukraine can now use US weapons for long-range strikes against Russian military targets, but there are strict limits on how they can be used. They have very few missiles available, which could limit their effectiveness in the ongoing war.
  2. Putin has reacted strongly to these developments, claiming he might escalate the conflict and use nuclear weapons. However, experts believe he is unlikely to act against NATO because it could further harm Russia's position in the war.
  3. The US is sending anti-personnel land mines to Ukraine, a controversial decision given their historical dangers to civilians. This move shows how the changing nature of warfare has made these weapons seem more necessary.

The apocalypse we choose

Thinking about... • 350 implied HN points • 03 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy
  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

Will US collect its $10 million bounty on former AQ leader in Syria?

Aaron Mate • 150 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The US has a $10 million bounty on a former Al Qaeda leader in Syria, raising questions about whether they will collect it. This situation highlights the troubles of the ongoing conflict in the region.
  2. Israel has faced criticism for denying Palestinians their right to self-determination and has been accused of causing a high civilian toll in its military actions in Gaza.
  3. There is debate around Iran's involvement in the Middle East, as some view it as a more reasonable actor compared to Israel, particularly regarding peace proposals that include a Palestinian state.

Senator Abourezk was Vietnam Syndrome, and Vietnam Syndrome was good

Matthew's Notebook • 98 implied HN points • 02 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Senator James Abourezk embodied the spirit of self-criticism and reform after the Vietnam War.
  2. The interconnectedness of the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal played a significant role in shaping American society during that era.
  3. Abourezk's advocacy for Arab-American rights and his diplomatic efforts internationally left a lasting impact on American politics.

Trump says Biden blocked Ukraine peace deal; Russiagate origins still hidden

Aaron Mate • 135 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Trump claims that Biden prevented a peace deal in Ukraine, suggesting that there are significant political barriers to resolving the conflict. This statement aligns with the views of others who believe the U.S. stance has obstructed peace efforts.
  2. The FBI is still not revealing important information regarding the origins of the Russiagate investigation. This lack of transparency raises questions about what really happened during that time.
  3. These issues highlight ongoing political tensions and the complicated nature of U.S. foreign policy, particularly concerning Ukraine and domestic investigations. There's a sense of frustration over how both subjects are being handled.

A Rogue Reporter vs. The American Empire (w/ Matt Kennard) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 151 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The U.S. plays a large role in influencing foreign elections and governments, often undermining leaders who promote democratic socialism in favor of its own corporate interests. This has been seen in places like Bolivia.
  2. The media often fails to expose the darker side of U.S. foreign policies. Instead of revealing the truths about interventions and human rights violations, they uphold narratives that support the idea of the U.S. as a benevolent force.
  3. Zionism and the Israel lobby heavily influence political discourse, particularly around Palestine. Criticism of this influence has increased, leading many to reconsider their views on colonialism and imperialism.

Weekend Update #104: Georgia Shows Why Ukraine Must Win

Phillips’s Newsletter • 177 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Democracy is fragile, as shown by the situation in Georgia where a government can manipulate elections and suppress dissent to maintain power. This highlights the importance of being vigilant to protect democratic systems.
  2. The fight for Ukraine's freedom is crucial for the future of democracy in Europe. If Ukraine loses, it could lead to a worsening decline of democratic values across the continent.
  3. There are concerning connections between certain political movements in the U.S. and leaders who support authoritarian regimes. This could influence U.S. foreign policy and the support for Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression.

The Dumb Luck Of Donald Trump

The Weekly Dish • 144 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Russia's economy is suffering a lot right now, which could lead to a better situation for Ukraine.
  2. There is a conversation happening about how to negotiate a more favorable deal for Ukraine during this crisis.
  3. Donald Trump's actions might be seen as fortunate for some political strategies, despite the complicated circumstances.

Time to Double Down

Diane Francis • 459 implied HN points • 31 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Russia is being described as a criminal organization driven by a passionate leader. They seem focused on taking control of parts of Ukraine.
  2. The message emphasizes the need for a strong response to aggression, implying that weakness won't lead to good outcomes.
  3. There's a sense that the situation calls for serious commitment and action, rather than avoiding tough choices.

THE END FOR ZELENSKY?

Seymour Hersh • 48 implied HN points • 18 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Ukrainian General Valerii Zaluzhnyi is seen as a strong candidate to replace President Zelensky after a stalemate in the war with Russia.
  2. There is speculation that the U.S. may push for Zelensky to leave office, potentially leading to his exile or forced removal.
  3. Many believe the ongoing conflict with Russia needs to be resolved soon to make room for a peace settlement.

Saturday Commentary and Review #179

Fisted by Foucault • 161 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. Trump's second term will face challenges due to the need for compromise in US politics and the divided support within the GOP. Expectation management is crucial because many factors could limit his ambitious plans.
  2. The discussion around liberalism is shifting, with some arguing that Trump represents a return to classic liberalism, while others believe his policies disrupt traditional liberal values. This highlights the changing definitions of liberal democracy.
  3. Europe is feeling the pressure from US economic policies, as countries like Germany struggle with the effects of competition and trade dynamics. The relationship between US demands and European economies is becoming increasingly strained.

Weekend Update #103: North Korea shows itself to be a Great Ally

Phillips’s Newsletter • 177 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. North Korean combat troops may soon join Russia in the Ukraine war, which could change the dynamics on the battlefield. Ukraine's leaders believe over 10,000 troops are being prepared to fight.
  2. Despite claims of rapid Russian advances, the actual progress on the ground has been minimal, raising concerns about the strategy of limiting support for Ukraine. The slow pace of advances suggests a grinding war continues.
  3. President Zelensky has proposed a five-point victory strategy for Ukraine, but there is little support from Western allies, particularly the US, making the situation challenging for Ukraine as it seeks increased military aid.

The US Seems to Be Deliberately Weakening its Global Position

Phillips’s Newsletter • 120 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy
  1. The US is becoming weaker on the global stage, which affects its influence and power. This might lead to challenges in maintaining its leadership in international matters.
  2. Alliances between countries are more powerful than relying on individual nations alone. Strong partnerships can help ensure security and success in conflicts.
  3. China's economic strength is growing, and when considering purchasing power, it may be leading over the US. This shows that economic measures can change the perception of power between countries.