The hottest Foreign Relations Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top U.S. Politics Topics

Natan Sharansky: A President’s Words Saved Me in the Gulag

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 779 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Foreign Relations Political Commentary Civil Rights
  1. Words from leaders can have a big impact, like how Reagan's words helped people in the Soviet Union. They find hope in support from powerful figures.
  2. Trump's comments about Ukraine's president being illegitimate mirror dangerous propaganda, which is concerning. It shows a shift away from supporting freedom against oppression.
  3. Political prisoners in Russia today might feel abandoned without clear support from American leadership. Having an ally is crucial for their morale and hope.

Nice little economy you've got there, be a shame...

The Crucial Years • 3388 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Energy Policy Climate change Foreign Relations Corporate Influence
  1. Countries like Taiwan, India, and Japan are increasing their purchases of American liquefied natural gas to avoid tariffs from the Trump administration. This move illustrates how global energy politics are heavily influenced by economic pressures.
  2. The push for liquefied natural gas exports has potential negative effects on American consumers, as it can lead to higher natural gas prices. Increased exports can make energy more expensive for households relying on natural gas.
  3. Despite the focus on fossil fuels, there is a growing movement towards renewable energy. It's important to promote clean energy solutions as a way to combat climate change and lower energy costs for everyone.

Ex-CIA Chief John Brennan Should Be Sent to Mars

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 13925 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Intelligence Security Policy Foreign Relations
  1. Ex-CIA heads like John Brennan are seen as dangerous when they are out of work. Their skills and experiences might lead to troubling actions.
  2. Public criticism can make former spies feel the need to prove their worth and intelligence. This can sometimes lead to mistakes that expose their true nature.
  3. The idea of sending former spies to a distant place, like Mars, is a humorous way to suggest they should be kept away from influencing public affairs.

"You don’t have the cards right now" – "I'm not playing cards Mr President" – "Oh you're playing cards, you're gambling with the lives of millions of people"

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 316 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations Political Analysis International Affairs Leadership Conflict
  1. Zelensky has been traveling to talk to world leaders about UKraine, but some people find his approach irritating. He believes in unity and democracy, but others think he’s become too much of a celebrity.
  2. A recent press conference between Zelensky and Trump turned sour, showing a breakdown in US-Ukraine relations. It highlighted disagreements over the war in Ukraine and differing views on responsibility for the conflict.
  3. The press conference was meant to be private negotiations but turned into a public disagreement. Many believe Zelensky didn’t handle the meeting well, and it may have lasting effects on their relationship.

One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This (w/ Omar El Akkad) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 146 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations Media Ethics Human Rights Social justice Political Commentary
  1. Language can hide the truth about violence and suffering. It helps people look away without feeling guilty, making it easier to ignore what's really happening.
  2. Those living under oppression have their own ways to resist, and it's not fair for outsiders to dictate how they should fight back. Resistance comes in many forms, and often there's no right way to do it.
  3. Acts of love and solidarity are happening every day, even in difficult times. These small actions remind us that we are connected and that caring for one another is essential, despite the harsh realities around us.
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Will Trump Turn Gaza Into a Mideast Riviera? Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1827 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy Foreign Relations Civil Rights
  1. Trump suggested turning Gaza into a tourist destination, but many criticized the idea, calling it a form of ethnic cleansing.
  2. Federal workers were offered a buyout option from their jobs, but many found it insulting and preferred to keep working.
  3. A new Chinese AI chatbot has raised concerns in the U.S. about losing the tech race, as it competes with American technologies despite restrictions.

Why is Europe Staying in an Abusive Relationship?

Phillips’s Newsletter • 174 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations Political Analysis International relations Trump presidency European Politics
  1. Europe feels trapped in a bad relationship with Trump, similar to how people stay in abusive situations due to fear and intimidation.
  2. Many European leaders don't recognize the unhealthy dynamics at play, which causes them to excuse Trump's actions instead of addressing their own weaknesses.
  3. To truly protect themselves, Europe needs to acknowledge the reality of this relationship and start acting more independently and confidently.

Given FARA, were US Public Health Administrators and US-Based NIAID-Funded Researchers Working Illegally on Behalf of Other Nations?

Popular Rationalism • 534 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Health Research Ethics Government Accountability Foreign Relations
  1. U.S. public health officials and researchers may have acted in ways that helped foreign countries, especially China, instead of focusing solely on American interests. This raises questions about whether they were following the law.
  2. There is evidence suggesting that decisions made by U.S. health leaders, like lifting a ban on risky research, potentially contributed to the COVID-19 outbreak. Their actions may not have prioritized public safety.
  3. A lack of transparency and accountability in how health officials manage information during the pandemic has eroded public trust. Many feel that critical details about the virus's origins were suppressed to protect certain interests.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 06.03.2025

steigan.no • 6 implied HN points • 06 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations Military Policy National Security Government Accountability
  1. Europe is shifting resources from welfare to military spending. This change is happening because of security concerns and a belief that a stronger military is needed.
  2. The military industry is making significant profits from the current conflict in Ukraine. Major defense companies are benefiting while social programs suffer due to budget cuts.
  3. There are serious human rights concerns regarding government actions against families, especially in cases involving child protection services. Many believe crucial rights are being overlooked in these situations.

Only Pathetic Bootlickers Spend Their Energy Criticizing China

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2249 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations Political critique Government Accountability Global Power National Security
  1. Criticizing China while ignoring the actions of Western countries is seen as hypocritical. It's important to focus on the more severe issues happening within our own governments.
  2. Many Westerners believe China is as harmful as Western powers, but this viewpoint overlooks China's different approach to foreign policy and military action.
  3. Instead of pointing fingers at other countries, it may be more beneficial to address the abuses and problems we live under in our own nations.

Why Is Trump Handing Our Enemies a Win?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2610 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policies Security Foreign Relations Government
  1. Revoking security for officials like Mike Pompeo puts them in danger. This is concerning because Iran has threats against them.
  2. Taking away these security measures could also weaken America's position internationally. It may give a sense of victory to enemies like Iran.
  3. The decision to revoke security seems to be politically motivated, impacting how former officials can protect themselves. It's crucial to consider the safety of individuals who have been targeted for their roles.

Trump’s Very Good, Very Bad Week on Ukraine

Nonzero Newsletter • 316 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Policy Foreign Relations Public Opinion
  1. The week had both good and bad moments regarding Ukraine. The good news was that discussions began to find peace between Ukraine and Russia.
  2. On the negative side, Trump made harsh comments about Ukraine's president and pressured Ukraine for valuable resources, which could harm international relations.
  3. Overall, while there's a push for peace, Trump's approach may undermine the trust and legality needed in such negotiations.

Why Trump Is Obsessed with the Panama Canal

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 463 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Public Policy Foreign Relations Elections National Security
  1. Trump has a strong belief that China is gaining control over the Panama Canal, which he thinks is a serious issue for the U.S.
  2. He often reminds people that the U.S. built and owned the canal before it was handed over to Panama.
  3. Some political figures are starting to take Trump's concerns seriously, discussing actions that could be taken regarding the canal's operations.

Defiant Trump takes on Davos: in first major speech of term two, POTUS unveils policy priorities

The Dossier • 446 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Government Economy Foreign Relations
  1. Trump plans to strengthen the U.S. economy by promising significant tax cuts and reducing foreign tariffs. He wants businesses to produce more in America by offering low taxes.
  2. He mocked climate change policies and aims to remove regulations that he believes hinder economic growth. Trump's focus is on promoting traditional energy sources like oil and gas.
  3. Trump wants to regain control over inflation and national debt while also pushing for international talks on oil prices and security issues like nuclear arms reduction.

Poetic Justice for Jay Bhattacharya. Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2606 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Government Foreign Relations Criminal Justice
  1. Jay Bhattacharya faced a lot of pushback for questioning COVID-19 lockdowns, but now he's nominated to lead the NIH. It feels like he's getting the recognition he deserves after being silenced.
  2. Tulsi Gabbard is facing unfair accusations of being a Russian asset due to her past views and meetings. People believe she should have a chance to explain herself in a confirmation hearing instead of being labeled.
  3. Hunter Biden received a controversial pardon from his father, Joe Biden, just before leaving office. This decision has upset many, including some Democrats, because it seems he's getting special treatment compared to others.

Democracy Doesn’t Exist in the United States: Chris Hedges | UpFront

The Chris Hedges Report • 235 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Election Policy Government Foreign Relations
  1. Many people worry about the future of democracy in the U.S., especially with political leaders like Donald Trump. They think his return could change things for the worse.
  2. Concerns are rising about how Trump’s second term might affect both domestic policies and foreign relations, particularly in the Middle East. People wonder what that will mean for the country's direction.
  3. Chris Hedges, a well-known journalist, believes that democracy in America is not truly existing anymore. He expresses this view in various discussions and writings.

The TikTok Problem Is Not What You Think

BIG by Matt Stoller • 28992 implied HN points • 15 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Privacy Consumer Protection Antitrust Foreign Relations Legislation
  1. The U.S. government is taking significant actions to address privacy and data protection, with legislation forcing a divestment of TikTok being part of a broader strategy.
  2. Recent legal actions by the Biden administration are reshaping how data brokers operate and enforce consumer protection laws in relation to sensitive consumer data.
  3. The debate over TikTok ownership highlights concerns about foreign control of key social infrastructure and the need for governance to prioritize the sovereignty of the people.

Biden’s Hunter Hypocrisy, What’s Happening in Syria, and More

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2230 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Relations Political Scandals Government Policy
  1. Hunter Biden was pardoned by his father, President Biden, despite earlier claims that such a pardon would not happen. This has raised questions about honesty and the use of presidential powers.
  2. The situation in Syria is escalating, with rebel groups challenging the government's authority, which adds to the existing tensions in the Middle East.
  3. Many people struggle with smartphone addiction, as shown by an artist who quit her phone to regain control over her life and live in the moment.

Turkey's Neutrality

Diane Francis • 999 implied HN points • 15 Aug 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Foreign Relations International Affairs Diplomacy Terrorism
  1. Turkey is a growing economy that plays an important role in world politics. It has good relations with many countries, even those that usually clash.
  2. The Turkish president is a skilled leader who knows how to handle complex international issues. His style of governance raises some concerns, but he is not seen as a dictator.
  3. Turkey's neutrality in global conflicts helps create stability. It balances relationships with major powers like the West, Russia, and China.

RedNote, Uber Eats in Kinmen, Jimmy Carter's Taiwan Legacy, AI EO and More

ChinaTalk • 385 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations Public Policy Government Technology Policy History
  1. RedNote, a popular Chinese social media app, has become a new favorite for TikTok users in search of a platform that connects them with genuine interactions. People are enjoying sharing jokes and cultural experiences across borders.
  2. Jimmy Carter's approach to U.S.-China relations helped protect Taiwan's interests, allowing the U.S. to provide arms to Taiwan even after recognizing China. His actions laid the groundwork for Taiwan's future as a democratic society.
  3. Uber Eats is expanding its reach in Kinmen, Taiwan, but it faces unique challenges like local mischievous monkeys that like to swipe food from delivery drivers. This highlights the quirky side of food delivery in the region.

Biden Ramps Up Nuclear Brinkmanship On His Way Out The Door

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1965 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Nuclear policy Foreign Relations Military Strategy Defense Policy
  1. The Biden administration has authorized Ukraine to use long-range missiles supplied by the US against Russian military targets. This decision raises concerns about a possible escalation in the conflict.
  2. Some officials believe this move may not change the overall situation in the war, but it risks provoking a strong response from Russia. There's a fear of pushing the conflict closer to direct confrontation.
  3. This policy change comes as political shifts occur, with a new administration potentially less supportive of Ukraine on the horizon. The risks taken in this situation highlight the serious dangers present in current international relations.

Cheap Signals

Sarah Kendzior’s Newsletter • 6250 implied HN points • 22 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Election Bipartisanship Foreign Relations
  1. The importance of holding onto simple dreams and moments of peace amidst political turmoil and corruption.
  2. The narrative discusses the dangers of political manipulation, corruption, and the impact on democracy, emphasizing the need for vigilance and critical thinking.
  3. Reflection on how societal issues such as genocides, pandemics, and political forces shape the daily lives of individuals and communities, urging readers to remain aware and engaged.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 01.03.2025

steigan.no • 8 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations Public Health Political Activism Geopolitics Government funding
  1. The relationship between NATO allies is currently in crisis, caused by conflicts involving leaders like Trump and Zelensky. The situation suggests a breakdown in what was once a united West.
  2. There are discussions about the potential for a ban on COVID-19 vaccines in the U.S., with concerns growing about their safety and effectiveness as new evidence emerges.
  3. Greece is experiencing unprecedented strikes and protests in response to political corruption and a tragic train accident, reflecting a deep public dissatisfaction with the government.

Why Wall Street is Surrendering to Trump

Bulwark+ • 6584 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Elections Foreign Relations Democracy Corruption
  1. Big business on Wall Street is aligning with Trump for venality, self-interest, and fear, even though they know he threatens democratic norms.
  2. Business elites view Trump as good for their bottom line despite his threats and autocratic tendencies.
  3. Trump's return could lead to increased government control to punish dissent, targeting industries and businesses that oppose his views.

Joint University Programs with China Escape Financial Reporting

OpenTheBooks Substack • 157 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations Education & Policy National Security Government oversight
  1. Many American universities have received substantial funding from China, potentially beyond hundreds of millions and into the billions. This funding is often linked to joint research programs.
  2. Some universities, like UC Berkeley and Georgia Tech, have faced investigations for failing to report foreign funding accurately. This has raised concerns about national security and the influence of foreign entities in U.S. academia.
  3. There's a call for universities to improve their financial reporting and for Congress to strengthen laws to ensure all foreign funding is disclosed. This is important for protecting U.S. research and technology.

Mass Hysteria? Iran? China? The U.S. Military? How the Leading Drone Theories Stack Up.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 635 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Legislation Security Foreign Relations Public Opinion
  1. There have been many sightings of large drones in New Jersey, leading to speculation about their origins. Some lawmakers think they might be from countries like Iran or China.
  2. The U.S. government claims there is no threat from these drones, suggesting people might be mistaking them for small aircraft instead.
  3. Despite official reassurances, many Americans and some politicians feel like there's more to the story and are skeptical of the government's explanations.

Ge Jianxiong on unity and division in China's history

Pekingnology • 94 implied HN points • 18 May 25
🌍 World Politics Foreign Relations Territorial disputes
  1. China has a long history of unity and division, but future unification can be achieved peacefully if it reflects the people's will, rather than through force.
  2. To maintain national unity, China needs to address issues like ethnic autonomy and democratization, while ensuring local governments have more control.
  3. Resolving territorial disputes is essential, and it requires realistic compromises rather than an insistence on historical claims.

A choice Republicans will regret.

Today's Edition Newsletter • 8549 implied HN points • 26 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Congress Legal Foreign Relations Scandal
  1. The House Republicans elected an extreme MAGA candidate, which may backfire for the GOP heading into the 2024 elections.
  2. A New York judge fined Trump $10,000 for violating a gag order, which may jeopardize his legal situation further.
  3. President Biden's stance on Israel may impact his support among certain voters, highlighting the challenge of balancing different interests as a leader.

February 12, 2025

Letters from an American • 22 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policies Legislation Foreign Relations
  1. Elon Musk now has significant control over parts of the U.S. government due to a new executive order that lets his department manage hiring and firing in various agencies.
  2. The U.S. government is facing potential funding cuts, which might affect programs like Social Security and aid for low-income individuals, while tax cuts for wealthy people are planned.
  3. There are worrying shifts in U.S. foreign policy, including a possible move away from supporting Ukraine and towards closer ties with Russia, which could undermine international alliances.

War on Gaza (w/ Joe Sacco) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 111 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Foreign Relations Media Criticism Censorship
  1. Joe Sacco uses graphic journalism to share stories from war zones, bringing a unique perspective that traditional media often misses. His work combines drawings and humor to convey tough realities.
  2. Sacco raises important questions about how we define aggression and self-defense, especially in context of the violence in Gaza. He suggests we need new terms to describe the complex nature of these conflicts.
  3. The discussion highlights the moral dilemmas faced in voting and supporting policies that contribute to violence, questioning how citizens can remain complicit while wanting change.

Why Does Trump Like William McKinley So Much?

Michael Tracey • 111 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Imperialism Foreign Relations
  1. Donald Trump praised William McKinley during his inauguration, highlighting McKinley's leadership in the Spanish-American War and economic growth. This shows how Trump may want to connect his presidency with historical figures who embraced expansionism.
  2. McKinley's decision to conquer the Philippines went against previous U.S. foreign policy, leading to a controversial war. The conflict raised questions about America's role in imperialism and its impact on other nations.
  3. Trump's reinstatement of the name 'Mount McKinley' reflects his administration's desire to signal a certain policy direction, often aligning with expansionist historical figures, despite local opposition in Alaska.

$10k defense grants + divorce reality tv + where immigration reform goes to die

ChinaTalk • 400 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense Policy Reality TV Cultural Commentary Foreign Relations
  1. A new group is offering $5,000 to $10,000 grants to people who can share bold ideas about defense strategies and military innovation. They want fresh thinking and to challenge old ways of doing things.
  2. There's a popular Chinese reality show where married couples, on the verge of divorce, go on a road trip together. It's creating a lot of buzz as viewers watch their emotional journey unfold.
  3. Recent changes in U.S. immigration policy aim to help international students who were required to return to their home countries after studying. It took a long time to fix this issue, highlighting problems in the system.

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

The Chris Hedges Report • 86 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy Foreign Relations Political Commentary
  1. Chris Hedges is hosting a live Q&A about Trump and Palestine. He encourages people to join and ask questions during the session.
  2. The discussion likely focuses on the impacts of Trump's policies on the situation in Palestine, which is a sensitive and important topic.
  3. People can support Chris Hedges' work by subscribing to his publication, which offers both free and paid options.

Progressive realism and Perfidious Albion

Wrong Side of History • 584 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Foreign Relations Conflict International Law Human Rights
  1. Armenia is caught in a tough spot geopolitically, needing support from larger powers such as Iran, Turkey, and Russia but often feeling abandoned. This ongoing struggle shapes their national identity and foreign relations.
  2. Azerbaijan has a strong military backed by Turkey, leaving Armenia feeling vulnerable and lacking allies. Many Armenians fear another attack from Azerbaijan in the near future.
  3. Britain's foreign policy appears to neglect Armenia's history and needs, as seen in recent comments from officials that seem to favor Azerbaijan. This raises concerns about human rights and ethical responsibilities in international relations.

Yes, America should absolutely annex Greenland

The Dossier • 276 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Geopolitics National Security Foreign Relations Historical context
  1. Greenland is very valuable because it has a lot of natural resources and is important for national security. If another country like China controls it, it could be bad for the U.S.
  2. The idea of annexing Greenland is similar to how the U.S. has expanded in the past, like with the Louisiana Purchase and Alaska. It could shape the future of the country.
  3. Negotiating for Greenland could be a major focus for the new president, and it might cement his legacy in a significant way, just like past leaders who made big territorial changes.

An Empire on the Brink of Collapse

Webworm with David Farrier • 3930 implied HN points • 11 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics US Politics Foreign Relations Immigration Global Affairs Diplomacy
  1. The author reflects on feelings of nervousness and limbo at the US Embassy in New Zealand for a visa appointment.
  2. America is portrayed as a country facing challenges and disparities, leading to reflections on its future.
  3. Living in America brings chaos but also a sense of contentment, with the author finding inspiration for stories from the environment.