The hottest Foreign Relations Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top U.S. Politics Topics

What You Should Know

Yasha Levine • 471 implied HN points • 30 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Foreign Relations
  1. RFK Jr. may be using synthetic hormones despite being against big pharma.
  2. Hypergenderism involves using body modifications to affirm current gender.
  3. Marx's concept of degrowth communism challenges endless growth under capitalism.

What's a prez to do? Polk and Mexico

A User's Guide to History • 275 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  1. James Polk was a president focused on territorial expansion and was successful in acquiring Texas and Oregon from Mexico.
  2. Polk used strategic military maneuvers to provoke Mexico into a war, ultimately leading to the acquisition of California and New Mexico.
  3. The Mexican-American War, despite facing criticism for its motives, resulted in significant territorial gains for the United States.

End the Senseless Economic War on Venezuela

Eunomia • 432 implied HN points • 22 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Foreign Relations
  1. House Democrats are urging the Biden administration to ease sanctions on Venezuela to alleviate economic crisis.
  2. Critics argue that continuing economic hardship on an entire population is immoral and unworthy.
  3. There is growing recognition of the undeniable failure and cruelty of the current Venezuela policy.

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 Foreign Relations
  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.

The Logic of the Chips Escalation

Policy Tensor • 393 implied HN points • 23 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  1. The concentration of authority in the national security advisor's office is vital for the security state's functioning.
  2. The chips escalation is driven by concerns over the cyber security of US nuclear command and control.
  3. Maintaining US primacy in the cyber realm is crucial to ensure the credibility of US nuclear deterrence.
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Hope For A Deal between Nippon Steel and the Steelworkers Union Before Election Day

Japan Economy Watch • 159 implied HN points • 27 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  1. There is hope for a deal between Nippon Steel and the Steelworkers Union before Election Day to avoid national security issues and ease political tensions.
  2. Election year politics heavily influence decisions, with implications for US-Japan relations and national security.
  3. Challenges exist in making the deal, including union concerns about potential job losses and the need for guarantees, but both sides are working towards a resolution.

Why Trump Is Obsessed with the Panama Canal

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 463 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  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.

A simple test to determine whether you have truly lost your mind (and assess the extent of the reversible damage)

Beck of the Pack • 176 implied HN points • 10 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  1. The article discusses the importance of being critical of mainstream media and not allowing oneself to be swayed by false narratives.
  2. There is a focus on recognizing the questionable actions and behaviors of powerful individuals, such as politicians and media personalities.
  3. The writer emphasizes the need for readers to stay informed, question information sources, and be aware of potential brainwashing tactics that can influence perceptions.

Buying Time: Europe’s Trump Dilemma

Phillips’s Newsletter • 197 implied HN points • 08 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  1. Europe is feeling pressure from both Trump and Putin, making it hard to support Ukraine effectively. They are looking for ways to manage their relationship with Trump while helping Ukraine resist Russian aggression.
  2. European leaders are trying to balance showing unity while dealing with the unpredictability of U.S. politics. They need to find the right approach to work with Trump without alienating their own people.
  3. Although Europe wants to become more self-reliant in defense, it recognizes that this will take time. The focus now is on maintaining support for Ukraine and delaying any U.S. withdrawal until Europe is better prepared.

Progressive realism and Perfidious Albion

Wrong Side of History • 584 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics Foreign Relations
  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.

Ukraine's Zelensky sends love letter to US corporations, promising 'big business' for Wall Street

Geopolitical Economy Report • 438 implied HN points • 25 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics Foreign Relations
  1. Ukrainian president Zelensky is actively seeking investment from US corporations like BlackRock, JP Morgan, and Goldman Sachs, encouraging them to do business in Ukraine.
  2. Zelensky's government has implemented aggressive anti-worker policies, limiting union rights and encouraging a pro-corporate environment.
  3. Western governments and corporations are planning aggressive neoliberal reforms for Ukraine, aiming to privatize and deregulate industries with the help of powerful entities like BlackRock.

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 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.

Saturday Commentary and Review #192

Fisted by Foucault • 145 implied HN points • 09 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  1. Europe is losing its economic independence due to heavy reliance on the USA. Recently, they signed a trade deal that favors American interests while diminishing their own.
  2. There's a crisis in understanding what is true in our society nowadays, leading to distrust in media and institutions. This is causing confusion about facts and opinions.
  3. The Yazidi people, a minority group in Iraq, have endured significant hardships but continue to survive despite ongoing threats. Their history highlights the challenges faced by vulnerable communities in conflict zones.

Xi Jinping Seeks To Ban “Socialism with Japanese and Singaporean characteristics,” Part I

Japan Economy Watch • 319 implied HN points • 20 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Foreign Relations
  1. Deng Xiaoping sought advice from Japan and Singapore to help China's economic miracle by focusing on export-led industrialization and attracting foreign companies for modern industries.
  2. Japan demonstrated the effectiveness of industrial policy to upgrade industries quickly and the importance of combining state action with market discipline to avoid economic pitfalls.
  3. China leveraged exports and foreign companies, following the examples of Singapore and Japan, to grow its economy, create higher-tech exports, and improve living standards.

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
  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.

Are Sanctions Working?

Diane Francis • 579 implied HN points • 06 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  1. Sanctions against Russia have hurt its economy but not enough to stop its war efforts. Russia's GDP might even be doing okay compared to countries that imposed the sanctions.
  2. Many Russian individuals and companies have found ways to dodge sanctions. While some assets are frozen, actual confiscations that would hurt the oligarchs have been limited.
  3. Energy sanctions are starting to take effect, with Russia's oil revenues dropping significantly. If these trends continue, it could weaken Russia's ability to sustain its war efforts.

"Trump's Alarming Rhetoric: A Gift to Putin"

Unmasking Russia • 137 implied HN points • 12 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Foreign Relations
  1. Trump's alarming rhetoric towards NATO raises concerns about the future of transatlantic security if he were to win the election.
  2. The need to address foreign interference in democratic institutions becomes urgent with Trump's willingness to align with Putin and seek assistance in the upcoming election.
  3. Trump's criticism of allies and questioning of NATO's value highlight the uncertainty of U.S. foreign policy and its implications for international stability.

"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
  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.

Trump’s Very Good, Very Bad Week on Ukraine

Nonzero Newsletter • 316 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  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.

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

ChinaTalk • 400 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics 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.

How China-Bashing Fuels the Fentanyl Crisis

Nonzero Newsletter • 496 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  1. Fentanyl is causing a huge problem in the U.S., killing more people than several wars combined. It affects many lives, from kids to adults, and costs the economy a lot of money.
  2. China used to be the main source of fentanyl in the U.S., but after 2019, their role changed. Now, Mexican drug cartels make the drug using chemicals from China.
  3. Politicians are blaming China to gain votes, but the reality is more complex. A better understanding of the crisis is needed to solve it, rather than just pointing fingers at another country.

Under Trump, the CIA is still covering up its Russiagate fraud

Aaron Mate • 143 implied HN points • 07 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  1. A CIA review found that the intelligence community, during Trump’s presidency, had flaws in its 2017 report about Russian interference in the 2016 election. However, they did not challenge the main claim that Russia influenced the election.
  2. Investigations into Russiagate by the Trump administration often did not hold accountable the key figures involved or address the origins of the allegations. Many important documents remain hidden, preventing full accountability.
  3. The controversy surrounding Russiagate not only affected Trump's presidency but also had lasting impacts on U.S. foreign policy, particularly its relationship with Russia and the situation in Ukraine.

Japan Is Joining “De-Risk From China” Coalition

Japan Economy Watch • 259 implied HN points • 03 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Foreign Relations
  1. Japan is aligning with American and European entities in a 'De-Risking' strategy towards China, aiming to avoid extreme outcomes like 'decoupling'
  2. Although complete 'decoupling' with China is not desired due to global interdependence, there is a shift towards 'de-risking' by foreign companies and governments
  3. China's actions are alienating foreign companies and impacting productivity growth, urging a balance between economic independence and international engagement

Biden Statement On Nippon Steel Does Not Preclude Merger

Japan Economy Watch • 79 implied HN points • 01 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  1. President Biden's statement opposing Nippon Steel's purchase of US Steel does not completely prevent the merger, as negotiations are ongoing.
  2. The Steelworkers Union and Nippon Steel are in arduous negotiations to reach an agreement that satisfies the union's conditions before the merger can proceed.
  3. If the Nippon Steel merger with US Steel fails, there are challenges for the union as there isn't another American company that can buy USS, potentially impacting union-management relations and financial stability.

Significant Uncertainties.

News Items • 235 implied HN points • 31 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics Foreign Relations
  1. Artificial intelligences are not considered conscious yet, but there is potential for self-awareness.
  2. An autonomous system called Swift has demonstrated success in drone racing at a human champion level.
  3. A new theory suggests that the brain may sort memories based on their usefulness for guiding future actions.

Dick Schulze (1929-2025). Patriot, Soldier, Congressperson, Federalist, Reagan Advisor, Christian, Sportsman, Friend, Mentor

Who is Robert Malone • 17 implied HN points • 25 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  1. He embodied comity — polite, bipartisan cooperation — showing that respectful cross‑aisle work can produce real results in government.
  2. He had a long, influential public service career, shaping tax, trade, social program, and defense policy as a senior member of key committees and as an advisor to presidents.
  3. His legacy mixes faith, patriotism, and mentorship, demonstrated by standing up for persecuted people abroad and urging future leaders to act with compassion, common sense, and commitment to country.

Iran's Jewish Population Belies Claims Of Tehran's Genocidal Intent

Stark Realities with Brian McGlinchey • 785 implied HN points • 27 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Foreign Relations
  1. Iran has a significant Jewish population that contradicts claims of genocidal intentions against Jews by the Tehran government.
  2. Iranian Jews enjoy freedom to practice their faith and live peacefully, even though they face limitations in certain aspects of society.
  3. The Iranian government's rhetoric often involves strong language against Israel as a political entity, but it does not necessarily translate to genocidal threats towards Jewish people.

a Based and Brave reply to Chris Rufo

Karlstack • 390 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  1. Some people believe there's a serious issue in American politics, especially regarding foreign influence and how it conflicts with the country's interests.
  2. There's a conversation about how identity politics can shape responses to conflicts, but this can ignore the real suffering of people on the ground.
  3. Criticism of certain narratives can lead to consequences for individuals, showing a tension between free speech and the protection of specific communities.

How Stupid Do They Think We Are?

startupdreams • 317 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  1. There are reports of drones flying over New Jersey, and Congress is concerned, but no one knows what they are. It seems surprising that such mysterious drones could evade radar and air defenses.
  2. A Congressman claimed that these drones might be launched from an Iranian 'mothership,' which seems hard to believe. It raises questions about the technology and motives behind this claim.
  3. Many people feel skeptical and frustrated by the government's explanations, suggesting this situation resembles previous misleading claims that led to unnecessary conflicts.

How Tariffs Are Breaking US Trade

Apricitas Economics • 123 implied HN points • 15 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  1. Tariffs are causing a big rise in costs for American consumers, with the government collecting record amounts from tariffs, which is hitting wallets hard.
  2. There has been a major drop in trade with China, with imports like electronics and vehicles seeing huge declines, making it harder for American businesses to get supplies.
  3. The ongoing trade war has created a lot of uncertainty, leading to unstable trade patterns and affecting exports to important partners like Canada and Mexico.

Yes, America should absolutely annex Greenland

The Dossier • 276 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  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.

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 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 American Caudillo

The Weekly Dish • 108 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  1. Trump is using military power in the U.S., which raises concerns about his leadership style. Many people feel this approach is not aligned with American values.
  2. There is a fear that Trump's actions could harm the concept of democracy in America. People worry about how this could change the country for the future.
  3. The situation highlights a divide in opinions about national security and governance. Some believe strong military presence is needed at home, while others find it troubling.

Weekend Update #110: Ukraine and the Degradation of Russian Power

Phillips’s Newsletter • 248 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  1. Russian claims of major gains in Ukraine are misleading. They've taken tiny areas compared to the vast size of Ukraine, while suffering heavy losses.
  2. The situation in Syria shows that Russia is struggling and can't maintain its influence there. This failure reflects their weakened power since the war in Ukraine began.
  3. The narrative of an imminent Ukrainian collapse is not supported by facts. It’s important to look at the bigger picture instead of believing sensational reports.

Why is Europe Staying in an Abusive Relationship?

Phillips’s Newsletter • 174 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  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.

The US should pull out of the Middle East

Phillips’s Newsletter • 88 implied HN points • 01 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations
  1. The US should reconsider its military presence in the Middle East as it often leads to unexpected problems. Military actions can be costly and may create more issues than they solve.
  2. Supporting allies who can defend themselves is important. Helping countries like Ukraine can prevent the need for direct US military involvement in future conflicts.
  3. Direct military intervention can weaken allies rather than strengthen them, as seen in past US engagements. It's better to focus on supporting local forces that are willing to fight for their own interests.