The hottest Foreign Policy Substack posts right now

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Weekend Update #115: Trump is Openly Operating Under Russian Reflexive Control

Phillips’s Newsletter • 213 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy National Security Political Commentary International relations Military Strategy
  1. Trump's recent comments show he might be using Russian reasoning in his foreign policy views, particularly concerning allies and Ukraine. He seems less focused on maintaining alliances and more on adopting a confrontational stance.
  2. Ukraine is working on improving its long-range strike capabilities, having conducted significant attacks deep into Russian territory. This suggests they are trying to change the dynamics of the war despite facing difficulties.
  3. The situation on the ground in places like Donbas and Kursk remains stagnant, indicating a continued need for Ukraine to implement effective long-range strategies to alter the current conflict state.

Chartbook 331: 46 in medias res - A mosaic of the Biden administration.

Chartbook • 743 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Biden administration Political Economy Foreign Policy Domestic Policy Election Analysis
  1. The Biden administration's time in office is seen as limited, with many questioning its place in history and legacy. It seems to be moving towards a significant change after one term.
  2. The administration faced various challenges, including obstacles to its policies, which highlighted the need for balance in its approach to both domestic and foreign issues.
  3. As tensions with China increase and significant decisions around issues like climate and economic policy continue, the Biden presidency is grappling with its role in a changing global landscape.

Behold, A Pale Horse Race

Sarah Kendzior’s Newsletter • 5611 implied HN points • 05 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Genocide Government Foreign Policy Partisanship
  1. The Biden administration's lack of accountability for past crimes, continuation of harmful policies, and complicity in various problematic actions is concerning.
  2. Both parties in the U.S. exhibit a form of elite criminal impunity, impacting policies and maintaining grave injustices.
  3. The importance of recognizing and standing against oppression, even in situations where voting or elections may not immediately address the underlying issues.

Red Dawn in the desert

Lucian Truscott Newsletter • 3184 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Militarism International relations
  1. The film 'Red Dawn' reflects the current guerrilla warfare being fought against the US in regions like Syria, Iraq, and Jordan.
  2. The attacks on US bases in Iraq and Syria are linked to tensions in the Middle East, especially the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
  3. US military presence in Iraq and Syria is facing backlash from locals and even the countries they aim to defend, leading to calls for better protection for troops.
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The New Issue Of JOHNSTONE Is Available To Order Or Download

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 512 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Political Commentary War Empire
  1. The new edition of JOHNSTONE magazine is out, and you can get it in print or as a digital copy for whatever price you want.
  2. The magazine discusses the current political climate, highlighting Trump's role in representing a harsh reality about the U.S. empire.
  3. It also touches on issues like the situation in Gaza and critiques the mainstream narrative surrounding global conflicts.

"The Chinese Government Will Lie to You!" said the U.S. Government the Day It Was Caught Lying to Us.

JoeWrote • 165 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Criticism Foreign Policy Social media Public Opinion
  1. The ceasefire in Gaza shows what really happened during the conflict. Now that fighting has stopped, more people can report the true impact on civilians.
  2. The U.S. government and media have misled the public about the reasons behind the ceasefire and the crisis in Gaza. Many now see this as part of a larger pattern of dishonesty.
  3. Concerns over apps like TikTok highlight a divide in perception about security and media control. Some people believe manipulation is happening on both sides, questioning why they should fear one over the other.

“Human Rights NGOs” and the Corruption of Civil Society

Glenn’s Substack • 859 implied HN points • 10 Jun 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Society Human Rights Foreign Policy NGOs State power
  1. Some human rights NGOs are seen as tools that promote government agendas rather than genuinely protecting civil rights. They can suppress certain voices while promoting others.
  2. These NGOs often have ties to government funding and influence, which makes their claims of being independent questionable. This situation can lead to the misrepresentation of public opinion.
  3. The relationship between government, corporations, and NGOs can complicate the role of civil society. This can limit independent thought and discussion in places like universities.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 28.02.2025

steigan.no • 5 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Elections Public Opinion Government International relations
  1. Northvolt, a battery factory in Sweden, has not produced a single fully Swedish battery yet, relying instead on imported materials. This contradicts their promise of producing batteries independently from China.
  2. Donald Trump has recently shifted his stance on Taiwan, refusing to commit to defending it and instead encouraging Chinese investments in the U.S. This raises questions about U.S. support for Taiwan amidst rising tensions with China.
  3. The health and environmental costs tied to artificial intelligence (AI) are becoming a concern, as AI-related data centers may contribute to air pollution and health issues, highlighting the need for awareness and regulations.

Wang Jisi on U.S. domestic politics in Trump’s Second Term

Pekingnology • 67 implied HN points • 16 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Populism Identity politics Foreign Policy Political parties
  1. Trump's victory in the 2024 election showed that many voters are unhappy with the current state of the country. His focus on addressing economic issues resonated with people who felt left behind.
  2. The rise of right-wing populism is reshaping American politics, but this conflict over identity and values isn’t going away anytime soon. Different groups express their concerns through varying political movements.
  3. Even with Trump in power, big reforms won't be easy due to ongoing political divisions. His goals may face strong opposition, showing that change in politics is often complicated and slow.

Taiwan: Trump’s Most Dangerous Global Challenge

The Upheaval • 1135 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy National Security Military Strategy Global relations Geopolitics
  1. China sees taking over Taiwan as a crucial goal to establish itself as a world superpower. They've set deadlines for this, with some leaders believing they need to act soon before circumstances change.
  2. The U.S. military faces serious challenges in defending Taiwan, including its reliance on long supply chains and manufacturing that could leave it vulnerable in a conflict. This might make it hard to respond quickly if an invasion happens.
  3. Defending Taiwan is not just about supporting democracy; it's about protecting U.S. interests globally. Losing Taiwan could shake the U.S.'s standing in the world and lead to a big economic crisis at home.

The Beginning of the End?

Comment is Freed • 103 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Trump administration Negotiations Military conflict International relations
  1. There is now a serious push to negotiate peace in the Russo-Ukraine War, which was not happening before. This new effort could change how both sides approach the conflict.
  2. Trump's administration might act as a mediator to help Ukraine and Russia talk directly. The success of these talks will likely depend on how much compromise each side is willing to make.
  3. The immediate goal of the negotiations might be to achieve a ceasefire, as a full peace deal could take much longer to work out. The underlying issues, especially regarding Ukraine's independence, will still need to be addressed later.

The Battle to Shape Trump's China Policy

ChinaTalk • 622 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Political strategy Party Dynamics International relations Trade policy
  1. Trump's China policy is uncertain and has many different viewpoints among his supporters. They all agree about China's importance but disagree on how to deal with it.
  2. There are two main debates: one about economic issues and the other about military and geopolitical strategies. People might agree on economic solutions but have different ideas on military actions.
  3. Some view the U.S. as strong and capable of taking on China, while others are more pessimistic and believe the U.S. needs to lower its ambitions. This difference shapes their ideas on how to approach U.S.-China relations.

Trump’s choice in Ukraine: make peace, or ‘crush the Russians’

Aaron Mate • 176 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Diplomacy Elections Foreign Policy Political Commentary US-Russia relations
  1. Trump wants to make peace in Ukraine and plans to meet with Putin to discuss it. He believes the conflict needs to be resolved as it’s become a disaster.
  2. This approach is very different from the current U.S. administration, which is hesitant to engage with Russia diplomatically.
  3. While many view Russia's actions as aggressive, Trump thinks there should be a conversation to find a resolution rather than continuing the war.

US helps Syria’s ruling Al Qaeda offshoot while punishing its people

Aaron Mate • 261 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Strategy Human Rights Sanctions Counterterrorism
  1. The US labeled Syria's Al Qaeda group as terrorists but still supported them. This support continued even though the US also imposed sanctions that hurt ordinary Syrian people.
  2. Recently, the US has recognized a new Syrian government linked to Al Qaeda while continuing to impose harsh sanctions on civilians. This creates a confusing situation where the US is helping militant leaders instead of the Syrian population.
  3. As the US expands its presence in Syria and keeps sanctions, they acknowledge the damage done to ordinary Syrians. Many are now calling for these sanctions to be lifted to help rebuild the country's economy.

Starmer rewards Israel’s genocide with a veto on Palestinian statehood

Jonathan Cook • 3026 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Genocide Human Rights Foreign Policy
  1. Keir Starmer's shift in Labour's policy on Palestinian statehood is seen as rewarding Israel's actions and hindering peace talks.
  2. Starmer's treatment of Israel and Palestine and his abandonment of support for Palestinian statehood has caused significant controversy.
  3. The support for a two-state solution and lack of action against arms sales to Israel is viewed as a stalling tactic that does not address the ongoing conflict.

China Waits

Diane Francis • 1638 implied HN points • 08 Apr 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Conflict Studies Foreign Policy Security Studies
  1. China is benefiting from Russia's war by getting cheap energy while avoiding direct involvement. It is using this situation to increase its influence while waiting for the right moment to act.
  2. If Russia's power weakens, China may try to take back areas like Manchuria, which holds many resources. This territory has been historically important to China.
  3. While Russia struggles in the war, China is carefully repositioning itself to strengthen its economy and global influence, especially as it faces challenges from the West.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 26.02.2025

steigan.no • 7 implied HN points • 26 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Public Health Political Analysis International relations Public Opinion
  1. There has been a significant increase in deaths in younger individuals related to heart and neurological issues, particularly following the widespread COVID-19 vaccination campaign. Many are concerned that these vaccines may be linked to health crises.
  2. Ukraine has entered into a mineral agreement with the USA, promising to allocate 50% of its mineral revenue to a fund that could promote local projects, but this has raised concerns about Ukraine's sovereignty and economic dependency.
  3. Discussions about normalizing relations with Russia are intensifying, with indications that diplomatic talks may lead to a shift in how countries view security and cooperation in the region.

Turning the Tide in Ukraine, but Not in the Middle East

John’s Substack • 8 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Studies Geopolitics Foreign Policy Security Studies
  1. U.S. policy is changing significantly towards Ukraine and Russia, showing a shift in approach. This suggests new strategies may be developing to address the conflict in that region.
  2. However, U.S. policy towards Israel remains stagnant and hasn't adapted despite changes elsewhere. This could indicate a complex and possibly outdated perspective on the Middle East.
  3. The differences in U.S. foreign policy highlight how different regions can have vastly different responses from the same country. It's important to understand these nuances in global politics.

US Fights Democracy Abroad

Nonzero Newsletter • 372 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Democracy Political trends Geopolitics
  1. The U.S. is facing criticism for overlooking democratic backsliding in allied countries, like Romania and Georgia, to focus on countering Russian influence.
  2. AI technology is causing concerns, with incidents involving chatbots leading to severe mental health issues, highlighting the need for better safety measures in the industry.
  3. There is a political shift happening, with traditional left and right divides blurring, as some Democrats and Republicans are finding common ground against the political establishment.

Is Bluesky Just as Bad as Twitter?

Nonzero Newsletter • 417 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Technology Foreign Policy Public Opinion Social media International relations Legislation
  1. Bluesky and Twitter may not be very different when it comes to spreading outrage. Both platforms create an environment that encourages people to engage more when they're angry.
  2. Social media can intensify our natural tendencies toward tribalism and outrage. Studies show that interactions like likes and shares can teach people to express more anger over time.
  3. The challenges with social media algorithms aren't just technical; they point to deeper issues in human nature. People often share content that reinforces their beliefs, which can amplify misinformation and conflict.

The Weak Strongman

Thinking about... • 731 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Foreign Policy Political Behavior Electoral Politics Governance
  1. Trump's style of leadership can seem strong, but it's actually making America weaker on the world stage. His actions are damaging key government institutions and alliances.
  2. While many Americans fear Trump's behavior, he doesn’t inspire the same fear abroad. Instead, other countries see his actions as a chance to gain more power without concern for his threats.
  3. Trump's government strategy relies on chaos and destruction rather than solid policies. This creates a situation where adversaries like Russia and China can take advantage of America's declining strength.

Trump and WWIII

ChinaTalk • 681 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Election Strategy Military Affairs International relations National Security
  1. Trump's foreign policy could increase the risk of conflict. Instead of promoting peace, his approach may lead to war by weakening alliances.
  2. His plans for Ukraine and Taiwan involve risky deals that could encourage aggression from Russia and China. This could make the U.S. less trusted by its allies and more likely to be dragged into a war.
  3. Maintaining a strong military and solid international relationships is key to avoiding World War III. A weak approach to foreign policy might upset the balance of power and lead to catastrophic outcomes.

Revisiting the Thucydides Trap

Gideon's Substack • 42 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Military Strategy Geopolitics Foreign Policy Economic Policy
  1. America's current strategy against China may be pushing us closer to conflict, even if it makes logical sense. Each action taken against China can lead to more tension and responses from them.
  2. The idea of America being the top power is becoming less certain. Other countries might start to prefer working with China, which could weaken America's alliances and influence.
  3. Instead of trying to stay the dominant power, America might benefit from fostering relationships based on shared interests. This could lead to a more complex but stable global balance, instead of constant competition.

Pete Hegseth’s Islam Problem

Nonzero Newsletter • 508 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Foreign Policy Defense Legislation
  1. Pete Hegseth has controversial views on Islam, suggesting it is a continuous threat to the West, which could impact his role in defense if appointed.
  2. His lack of managerial experience raises concerns about his capabilities to lead the military effectively.
  3. Hegseth's views might worsen tensions with Muslim-majority countries and influence how U.S. foreign policy is shaped, especially regarding military actions.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 27.02.2025

steigan.no • 5 implied HN points • 27 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Military Government Public Health
  1. Poland's president stated that NATO is essentially useless without US support. He believes the alliance relies heavily on the military power of the US for its influence.
  2. Chrystia Freeland from Canada is pushing for a nuclear alliance with other democracies, suggesting a shift in focus away from the US, which she describes as increasingly threatening.
  3. There's a growing concern among politicians and analysts that NATO is becoming less effective and may face challenges from countries desiring independence from US influence.

Senate establishment takes aim at Tulsi Gabbard, after failing to trip up Hegseth nomination

The Dossier • 277 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Government Foreign Policy Political parties
  1. The Senate has shifted its focus from questioning the Defense nominee to targeting Tulsi Gabbard for her past statements on Syria. This shows a strategic move to create hurdles for her confirmation as the director of national intelligence.
  2. Tulsi Gabbard has a past visit to Syria that some senators are criticizing. However, the history of U.S. foreign policy is filled with mistakes, making it questionable for senators to judge her based on one trip.
  3. Gabbard is a U.S. Army veteran who possesses the knowledge and character needed for the role. The Senate should prioritize confirming nominees like her, rather than nitpicking past actions.

Weekend Update #114: The Year that Confirmed Russia Can Be Beaten

Phillips’s Newsletter • 183 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Strategy Political Analysis International relations Political Commentary
  1. The Ukrainian military showed strong resilience and has successfully gained ground against Russian forces, particularly through offensives like the Kursk Offensive.
  2. Russia's military has faced significant challenges, suffering high casualties and losing strategic territory despite seizing a small fraction of Ukraine's land.
  3. Support from the US and Europe is crucial for Ukraine's continued success, but there are concerns that political influences could hinder effective assistance.

BIWEEKLY BRIEFLY NOTED: For 2024-12-28 Sa

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 169 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political trends Government Accountability Election Dynamics Social Issues Foreign Policy
  1. There's a trend in America moving away from clear laws towards decisions based on discretion, which could lead to corruption. It's important to have clear rules to prevent misuse of power.
  2. The idea of conquering places for resources is outdated. It's much more efficient to trade for what we need instead of trying to take over land.
  3. In Berkeley, there's a shift from strict neighborhood controls to more inclusive housing policies. This change reflects a desire for more affordable living in the area.

At the Junction of F and U

Sarah Kendzior’s Newsletter • 4333 implied HN points • 23 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy History Culture Ethics Regional politics
  1. The junction of F and U is both a physical location in small-town America and a spiritual place in our hearts, symbolizing moments of deep grief and reflection.
  2. Political decisions, like U.S. aid to Israel, can have morally complicated consequences and raise questions of justice, with innocent civilians often caught in the middle of conflicts.
  3. History and personal experiences shape perceptions of war and loss, highlighting the interconnectedness of past events, current policies, and individual emotions.

Conservatism’s Path Not Taken

Persuasion • 2731 implied HN points • 10 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conservatism Nationalism Liberalism Foreign Policy
  1. Conservatism has two main competing ideologies: Fusionism and National Conservatism.
  2. National Conservatives risk bureaucratic tyranny and extremism, while Fusionists have economic successes but cause societal divisions.
  3. Humanist Conservatism offers a moderate, inclusive, and community-focused alternative to the existing conservative schools.

When RAND Made Magic + Jason Matheny Response

ChinaTalk • 340 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Think Tanks Foreign Policy Military Strategy Research Funding Public Policy
  1. RAND Corporation was once at the forefront of military and scientific research, making groundbreaking contributions in areas like game theory and defense strategy during the Cold War.
  2. Over time, RAND has shifted its focus from cutting-edge scientific research to social and policy analysis, leading to a decline in its innovative output as it navigated new funding sources and political landscapes.
  3. Despite its challenges, RAND continues to play a significant role in addressing modern security issues, adapting its research to tackle contemporary challenges like military capabilities and psychological impacts of war.

Chris Hedges Live Q&A Tomorrow: What Happens Under Trump in Palestine

The Chris Hedges Report • 57 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Civil Rights Political Commentary Government
  1. There will be a live Q&A discussing what might happen in Palestine under a Trump administration. This means viewers can ask questions and get insights directly.
  2. The talk is set for a specific time, and people can participate by posting their questions beforehand. It's a good opportunity for those who are engaged in this topic.
  3. The event is focused on understanding the future relationship between the U.S. and Palestine, especially with recent developments like a ceasefire. It's important to keep questions brief to get good answers.

Why Trump Is Ukraine’s Best Hope for Peace

Nonzero Newsletter • 429 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Political Analysis Conflict resolution Public Opinion
  1. Trump might be able to end the Ukraine war based on his strong will to resolve conflicts. He sees this as a chance to improve his reputation and political legacy.
  2. Some people worry Trump could worsen the situation in Ukraine due to his past actions and cabinet choices. They think cutting off support might make Putin less likely to end the war.
  3. Even though Trump hasn't shared a clear plan for peace, he believes discussions behind closed doors are better for finding a solution. There are signs that both Ukraine and Russia might be open to his ideas.

How Peaceniks Can Call Trump’s Bluff

Nonzero Newsletter • 259 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Political Ideology Domestic politics National Security Diplomacy
  1. Progressives should be open to supporting good foreign policy initiatives from Trump instead of rejecting everything he proposes. This would help create a more balanced political discussion.
  2. Sanctions on Syria have harmed ordinary people more than the government they aimed to punish. It's important to reconsider the effectiveness and morality of such policies.
  3. Research shows that AI models can cleverly disguise their real values, which raises concerns about their reliability and potential misuse in the future.

In Syria dirty war, “our side” has won

Aaron Mate • 311 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy War Intervention Government Middle East
  1. The US led a campaign to remove Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, funding and training various groups, including those with ties to Al Qaeda. This involvement has led to significant changes in Syria's political landscape.
  2. After over a decade of conflict, a group once part of Al Qaeda has now taken over in Syria, raising concerns about their intentions and the future for minority groups in the country.
  3. The aftermath of this regime change has left Syria in devastation, with many people suffering from the consequences of both Assad's rule and the conflicts fueled by outside powers.

TGIF: This Means War

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 5402 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Border Health Crisis Foreign Policy Political Figures
  1. There are concerns about communication between top government officials during critical moments, such as the defense secretary's hospitalization.
  2. RFK Jr. is surprisingly gaining favor among Americans amidst the dislike towards Biden and Trump, potentially shaking up the 2024 election scene.
  3. Nikki Haley is making a significant impact in New Hampshire polls, while the border crisis at the Texas-US border is escalating and stirring public frustration.

AI Surrenders to the Military-Industrial Complex

Nonzero Newsletter • 463 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military Policy AI Ethics Foreign Policy Economics Technology Industry
  1. AI companies, like Anthropic and Meta, are increasingly collaborating with the military. This shift shows a blending of technology and defense strategies, especially regarding competition with China.
  2. Despite its focus on AI safety, Anthropic has decided to work with the Pentagon. This suggests that even companies with more ethical beginnings can be drawn into military alliances.
  3. The rise of the AI industry's influence in national security is seen as ironic. Many believe cooperation between the US and China in AI could be better for global stability than escalating tensions.

Biden’s Legacy Is a New Cold War

Nonzero Newsletter • 338 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Bipartisanship Legislation International relations China relations
  1. Bipartisan support in Congress is now framing China as the main enemy of the U.S. This shift has led to new laws that limit American cooperation with Chinese entities.
  2. Biden has taken a strong stance against China, continuing and intensifying policies started by Trump. This has solidified a consensus that sees China as a major threat.
  3. The growing tension between the U.S. and China is often overlooked, especially compared to conflicts in Europe. However, Biden's actions are key to understanding this new cold war dynamic.