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America, The Coward!

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 18 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Political Commentary Bipartisanship
  1. America's stance on the Ukraine draft is seen as cowardly. Instead of sending their own youth to fight, they push other countries to do it.
  2. The conflict in Ukraine has led to high casualties, with many young lives at risk due to forced conscription. Families are suffering losses, which complicates the situation further.
  3. Using the youth of Ukraine as leverage in talks with Russia shows a lack of respect for their lives and emphasizes a reckless approach to international relations.

The Great Whitewash is Starting

Phillips’s Newsletter • 133 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Biden administration Ukraine conflict Political critique Government Accountability
  1. The Biden administration's foreign policy regarding Ukraine has been seen as a major failure, wasting a chance to enhance global stability.
  2. After the start of the invasion in 2022, the U.S. response was too cautious and led to prolonged conflict, drawing in multiple global regions.
  3. There are concerns that the administration is attempting to rewrite its failures to protect its reputation, similar to controversial actions from the previous administration.

The China-is-not-Russia Summit

Diane Francis • 879 implied HN points • 16 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Geopolitics Foreign Policy Bilateral Relations Diplomacy
  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.

Open Thread #33

Fisted by Foucault • 99 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Cultural Studies Global Issues Public Discourse Foreign Policy
  1. There is a discussion about whether cultural conflicts are becoming a global issue. People are debating if what happens in one country affects others.
  2. The panel will explore different paths that the USA might take in its foreign policy, including being more isolationist or more transactional. This shows how foreign relations can vary widely.
  3. The author is excited to connect with readers who will attend the event. It's a chance for meaningful conversations and sharing ideas.
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What does Trump's win mean for the world?

Comment is Freed • 131 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis International relations Government Structure Foreign Policy Trade policy
  1. Trump's presidency might lean towards nationalism and isolationism. This could challenge established alliances like NATO and impact international cooperation.
  2. Expect unpredictability in Trump's upcoming administration, with potential government restructuring and a focus on unilateral decisions. This may lead to issues in the usual functioning of government.
  3. Trump's approach to foreign conflicts, especially in Ukraine and the Middle East, could shift, leading to concerns among allies about U.S. support and stability in those regions.

Biden's 'Sustained Campaign' in Yemen Is Illegal and Pointless

Eunomia • 569 implied HN points • 23 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Military Action War Powers Foreign Policy Global Leadership
  1. The Biden administration's military campaign in Yemen is illegal and unauthorized by Congress.
  2. There is skepticism that the campaign will achieve its goals, making it a pointless endeavor.
  3. The decision to continue the strikes is driven by ideology rather than national interest, reflecting larger issues in U.S. foreign policy.

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 Military Strategy International relations Security Geopolitics
  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.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 16.02.2025

steigan.no • 5 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Elections Government International relations Military Affairs
  1. Syria is facing severe challenges from terrorists, leading to dire human rights abuses and a lack of media coverage. Many people are suffering and there seems to be no solution in sight.
  2. The importance of good fatty acids for brain health is emphasized, particularly the balance between omega-6 and omega-3. Proper intake is crucial for mental well-being.
  3. With ongoing wars and conflicts in various regions, there’s a looming risk that new proxy wars could arise in lesser-known places, influenced by international politics and major powers.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 12.02.2025

steigan.no • 7 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Energy Policy Election Issues Government Accountability International relations
  1. Norway's political crisis reflects a larger energy issue in Europe. The mistakes in Germany's energy policy are impacting Norway and other Nordic countries, causing rising electricity prices.
  2. The US government and its NGOs have been involved in influencing foreign narratives and politics. They've worked to control regions like Ukraine through funding and pressure against local leaders who promote peace.
  3. EU laws are heavily influenced by big business, often sidelining the public's interests. Lobbyists are working closely with politicians to shape regulations in their favor, leading to questions about democracy in decision-making.

Commentator

Castalia • 339 implied HN points • 20 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy National Security International relations Legislation Political Analysis
  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.

What if the USA is about to Become an Ally of Putin?

Phillips’s Newsletter • 113 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Foreign Policy Political parties Legislation
  1. Donald Trump has appointed Rep. Tulsi Gabbard as the next Director of National Intelligence. This move raises questions about how the US might shift its foreign policy.
  2. Tulsi Gabbard has a mixed history with war; she opposes some conflicts while supporting others. Her stance seems to protect certain dictators like Bashar Assad, which has drawn criticism.
  3. Gabbard's alignment with controversial figures could suggest a potential change in US alliances, making the idea of becoming an ally of Putin more plausible. Overall, this situation could reshape global politics significantly.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 13.02.2025

steigan.no • 6 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Government Political Figures Legislation
  1. The Prime Minister of Norway, Jonas Gahr Støre, is open to working with the leftist party Rødt if they gain a majority in the upcoming elections. He believes in maintaining good communication and cooperation with them on important issues.
  2. Tulsi Gabbard has been appointed as the head of US intelligence agencies, overseeing significant resources and responsibilities. Her new role is expected to be closely watched due to her controversial political history.
  3. Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin have agreed to begin negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. This signals a possible shift in diplomatic efforts but does not guarantee that the conflict will end soon.

Pete Hegseth, a "recovering neocon"?

Michael Tracey • 77 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Foreign Policy Political Figures Public Perception
  1. It's common for politicians to change their minds, but we need to think critically about why they do it. Some changes could be sincere while others may just be for political gain.
  2. Pete Hegseth used to be a strong supporter of the Iraq War, but he now claims to have changed his views. However, his past support raises questions about his current beliefs.
  3. The idea of being a 'recovering neocon' doesn't just mean saying you were wrong. It's important to see if someone's actions and thoughts have genuinely changed before giving them credit.

Weekend Update #102: Bad News and Good News

Phillips’s Newsletter • 174 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy National Security Political Commentary Military Affairs
  1. Ukrainians feel worried about their support from the U.S. as the upcoming presidential election could lead to less aid if Trump wins. There's a real fear of feeling abandoned during the war.
  2. Despite their worries, Ukraine is showing strong efforts in their military strategy by successfully attacking Russian supply lines, demonstrating they can hit key targets effectively.
  3. America's support for Ukraine remains uncertain, with some leaders expressing no appetite for further aid. This makes it hard for Ukraine to feel secure as they fight for their independence.

US Authorizes (limited) Long-Range Strike

Phillips’s Newsletter • 102 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Military International relations Foreign Policy Defense
  1. The Biden Administration has allowed Ukraine to use US long-range strike systems, which is a significant approval after many months of conflict.
  2. President Zelensky emphasized that actions, not announcements, will define their response, implying that military actions will soon take place.
  3. There are still many unanswered questions about this decision, and its impact may depend on future developments and limitations imposed on Ukraine.

Can Great Power Politics Be Ethical?

Castalia • 299 implied HN points • 27 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy International relations Political theory Political Ethics Military Strategy
  1. Great power politics often involves tough choices where states prioritize their own interests. This leads to conflicts and a belief that violence can sometimes be necessary to maintain power.
  2. Realism, a key theory in international relations, suggests that international laws and good intentions often don't work. Instead, powerful nations will act according to their own interests, regardless of fairness.
  3. Despite hopes for a more cooperative international system, powerful states rarely act differently than weaker ones, and this creates a cycle of conflict driven by the pursuit of power.

Can Trump get a deal on Ukraine?

Comment is Freed • 91 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy National Security Immigration Bipartisanship
  1. Trump might push for a deal with Ukraine, but it could favor Putin more than Ukraine itself. This raises concerns for European allies who depend on Ukraine's resistance against Russia.
  2. Ukraine is not a top priority for Trump, as his main focus lies on domestic issues like immigration, taxes, and trade with China. His administration may not have clear plans for Ukraine yet.
  3. If Trump is unable to secure a peace deal, there are questions about how much support he will continue to offer Ukraine. This uncertainty creates worries for Ukraine's future security and recovery.

Weekend Listening: Should America Continue to Aid Ukraine?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 894 implied HN points • 24 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Defense Public Opinion Legislation Political Views
  1. The costs of the war between Russia and Ukraine have been extremely high, with many casualties and significant financial support from the U.S.
  2. Public opinion in America has shifted over the past two years, with a majority now opposing additional funding to support Ukraine.
  3. Debates center around the importance of America's role in Ukraine, the effectiveness of aid packages, and the state of the war in Ukraine.

The USA is Trump's Now, Europe Must Get Ready

Phillips’s Newsletter • 119 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy NATO Military Leadership
  1. Trump is becoming president again with a strong majority, and this changes things for Europe. They need to prepare for new challenges ahead.
  2. Trump's stance on NATO could make the alliance less effective. US forces might not defend Europe if Trump doesn't want them to.
  3. European leaders might try to win Trump over, but it's uncertain if it will work. They need to face the reality that things cannot stay the same.

Biden's Cluster Munitions Blunder

Eunomia • 884 implied HN points • 07 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics Foreign Policy Human Rights Military International Law Allies
  1. Cluster munitions are inherently indiscriminate and pose a threat to civilians long after a war ends.
  2. Providing cluster munitions to Ukraine may lead to more harm than good, as they can maim and kill civilians and soldiers.
  3. Exporting cluster munitions contradicts previous condemnations of their use, creating political problems and potential hypocrisy.

Middle East Morass

Diane Francis • 839 implied HN points • 19 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Middle East Geopolitics National Security Humanitarian Issues
  1. Joe Biden supported Israel while also stressing the need to avoid mistakes like those made after 9/11. He warned that anger shouldn't lead to prolonged conflict that causes more instability.
  2. The situation in the Middle East is tense, with Iran and other countries expressing aggression towards Israel. Neighboring countries like Jordan and Egypt are worried about an influx of Palestinian refugees due to potential violence.
  3. There is a call for a regional summit to address the ongoing crisis and seek a two-state solution. A collective effort from countries like Egypt and Saudi Arabia is seen as crucial for peace.

Commentator

Castalia • 379 implied HN points • 21 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military conflict Elections Political Commentary International relations
  1. It's really hard to talk about the Israel-Gaza conflict because people have strong feelings and different views. It's important to recognize Israel's right to defend itself, but many innocent people in Gaza are suffering too.
  2. Alexei Navalny showed great courage by returning to Russia despite knowing the risks. He represents the idea of standing firm on one's principles, and his legacy challenges us to think about bravery in the face of tyranny.
  3. The current political situation in the U.S. has lots of people worried about Biden's age and electability. There's a growing discussion about whether it's time for the Democratic Party to find a new candidate who could energize voters and win the upcoming election.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 14.02.2025

steigan.no • 5 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Affairs Public Policy Elections Government
  1. A majority of Ukrainians now prefer negotiating a quick peace instead of continuing the war, showing a significant shift in public opinion after years of conflict.
  2. The economic impacts of the war are heavily burdening European countries, as they are taking on the costs while the United States benefits economically from the situation.
  3. China is advancing its space program with ambitious plans, including a manned moon base and potential missions to Mars, aiming to establish itself as a leader in space exploration.

What I Learned about how the U.S. Handled the Run-Up to Russia's Invasion of Ukraine

Drezner’s World • 845 implied HN points • 27 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Intelligence Sanctions National Security Geopolitics
  1. The U.S. believed Putin invaded Ukraine due to perceptions of Russian weakness, not U.S. weakness.
  2. Intelligence was used effectively by the Biden administration to persuade allies and delay Russia's invasion.
  3. Biden officials concluded that pre-emptive sanctions wouldn't have deterred Russia and focused on seizing oligarchs' assets to highlight corruption.

This Is What You Should Absolutely Not Be Doing Right Now

Discourse Blog • 805 implied HN points • 19 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Humanitarian Crisis Media Criticism
  1. Avoid dishing out heartless condescension to others who may not fully support Joe Biden at this time.
  2. In moments of crisis, identify what actions are harmful and not beneficial to the situation.
  3. Be cautious of your words and actions, especially during difficult times like the humanitarian crisis faced by the people of Gaza.

Israel, Ukraine Support

Diane Francis • 759 implied HN points • 30 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Governance Foreign Policy Party Dynamics Military Aid Public Opinion
  1. Support for Ukraine is in danger as the focus shifts to Israel, but many Americans and Europeans still want to help Ukraine fight against Russia.
  2. Ukraine faces serious military challenges and needs continued support, especially with winter approaching and ongoing attacks on its cities.
  3. There's a worry that U.S. political issues could hurt aid for Ukraine, making it crucial for leaders to prioritize security and act decisively.

Putin Weaker? Nyet

Diane Francis • 939 implied HN points • 31 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Conflict Studies Foreign Policy Military Affairs
  1. Wagner, a private military group, is a key part of Putin's strategy and makes a lot of money from warfare and operations around the world.
  2. Putin uses Wagner not just for military actions but also to gain influence and control over resources in African countries, often through illegal means.
  3. Despite issues in Ukraine, Putin remains strong because of his partnerships and the ongoing power of groups like Wagner in the global landscape.

Talking Israel with the Judge

John’s Substack • 7 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Affairs Social Issues Political Commentary Elections
  1. The discussion was about Trump's approach to Israel and Ukraine. It happened just before Trump announced a controversial military plan for Gaza.
  2. The plan discussed was considered absurd and morally wrong, indicating strong disapproval.
  3. More details about this plan will be talked about in future discussions, suggesting it's an important topic to watch.

BIDEN’S LAST HURRAH AGAINST RUSSIA AND PUTIN

Seymour Hersh • 79 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Elections Military Affairs International relations Political strategy
  1. Biden is feeling frustrated as he deals with a tough situation in Ukraine while other Democratic leaders are stepping back from him. There are concerns about whether he can manage the ongoing conflict and his future as a president.
  2. He made controversial decisions to provide advanced weaponry to Ukraine, leading to escalations from Russia and raising fears of a larger global conflict. People are worried about the humanitarian impact of using landmines in the war.
  3. There's talk that Trump has been communicating informally with Putin about ways to potentially end the war. Some experts believe Putin is waiting for the right moment to negotiate, while Biden continues to face criticism for his foreign policy approach.

Trump's Anschluss

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 18 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Political Commentary National Security Geopolitics
  1. Trump believes the Panama Canal deal was a mistake and feels the U.S. should have better control over it for economic security. He argues that the canal's management by China is unfair to the U.S.
  2. He emphasizes the need for America to impose tariffs on Canada and Mexico, expressing dissatisfaction over perceived imbalances and unfair trade practices.
  3. Trump suggests that acquiring Greenland would bolster U.S. national security and could shift power dynamics involving Russia and China, hinting at a desire for greater influence in the region.

EXCLUSIVE Interview with Presidential Candidate Marianne Williamson

Krystal Kyle & Friends • 786 implied HN points • 05 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Interview Presidential Candidate Foreign Policy
  1. Krystal and Kyle interviewed Presidential Candidate Marianne Williamson.
  2. The interview covered topics like foreign policy, establishment opposition, and media treatment.
  3. Marianne Williamson discussed her strategy against Biden and Trump, her pitch to 'normie' Democrats, and how this run is different from her previous one.