The hottest Foreign Relations Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top U.S. Politics Topics

China deepens ties with Venezuela, challenging US 'hegemonic mindset'

Geopolitical Economy Report • 837 implied HN points • 16 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy Foreign Relations International Organizations Geopolitics Global Economy
  1. China and Venezuela have deepened their strategic partnership, challenging the hegemonic mindset and sanctions imposed by the US.
  2. Venezuela has significant economic potential due to its vast oil and gas reserves, attracting interest from China as a reliable energy partner.
  3. The growing alliance between Venezuela and China symbolizes a shift towards South-South cooperation, emphasizing mutual development and multipolarity in today's global landscape.

Latest Piece Out in the Atlantic: Biden's Catastrophe

Phillips’s Newsletter • 69 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Analysis Foreign Relations Political critique Government International Affairs
  1. The Biden Administration's approach to Ukraine has been unsuccessful and has made the world a more dangerous place.
  2. This failure has weakened the United States and its position in global affairs.
  3. The author shared a first draft of the article to give readers insight into what was eventually published in The Atlantic.

US woos India's far-right PM Modi to help wage new cold war on China

Geopolitical Economy Report • 737 implied HN points • 24 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Diplomacy Foreign Relations International Organizations Global Economy
  1. The US is seeking India's help in forming an alliance against China, even though India's Prime Minister Modi has links to far-right Hindu-supremacist groups.
  2. Modi's BJP party and regime in India have a history of inciting violence against minorities and undermining left-wing activism.
  3. The US aims to use India to weaken the BRICS bloc and isolate China and Russia, with efforts to sway India away from its traditional non-aligned foreign policy.

TLP Week in Review, 2/4-2/10

The Liberal Patriot • 334 implied HN points • 10 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Foreign Relations Domestic Policy Analysis Security
  1. The post discusses the impact of Trump's actions on US national interests and the dangerous world he may have already created.
  2. There is a strong criticism of Republicans for favoring Russia over Ukraine, and the consequences outlined could be catastrophic.
  3. The report highlights Russia's crimes in Mariupol, Ukraine, and raises questions about accountability in the midst of devastation.
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ADDENDUM C: Unauthorized Foreign Police Operations and the Erosion of U.S. Sovereignty

Autodidact Obsessions • 8 implied HN points • 21 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Security Foreign Relations Legal Framework Law enforcement
  1. Unauthorized foreign police operations, like Chinese police stations in the U.S., threaten American sovereignty. They can bypass U.S. laws and authority.
  2. These foreign actions dilute the power of the President and Congress over foreign affairs, which is a key part of the U.S. Constitution.
  3. Having foreign law enforcement in the U.S. undermines the local police's authority and can create confusion in how justice is administered.

Addendum A: Case Study – Strategic Exploitation of Judicial Ambiguity by Foreign Paramilitaries

Autodidact Obsessions • 8 implied HN points • 21 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Judicial system Immigration National Security Political strategy Foreign Relations
  1. Judicial ambiguity in immigration laws can be used by foreign paramilitary groups to enter the U.S. undetected. This makes it hard for authorities to respond quickly to potential threats.
  2. Once inside, these groups can set up operations and blend into communities using black-market activities. This allows them to gain power and influence without being immediately noticed.
  3. The current legal standards prioritizing individual hearings for immigrants slow down the ability to enforce immigration laws. This creates vulnerabilities in national security and operational effectiveness.

'Mexico is not a US colony!': AMLO condemns invasion threats, celebrates nationalization of oil, lithium

Geopolitical Economy Report • 617 implied HN points • 25 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Foreign Relations International Conflicts National sovereignty Geopolitics Ideology
  1. AMLO condemns US invasion threats on Mexico and emphasizes national sovereignty
  2. AMLO honors the revolutionary legacy of Lázaro Cárdenas and his focus on social justice
  3. AMLO highlights the government's unprecedented social spending to support working-class Mexicans

UK has concerns about South African claim

A Lawyer Writes • 294 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics International Law Genocide Middle East Conflict Foreign Relations
  1. The UK raises concerns about South Africa's actions against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
  2. The UK supports Israel's right to self-defense and disagrees with labeling their actions in Gaza as genocide.
  3. The International Court of Justice has called for aid into Gaza and preservation of evidence related to allegations of genocide.

Trump’s Taiwan Tariff Shock

Taipology • 102 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Trade policy Foreign Relations Economic Policy Election Impact Political Commentary
  1. Trump has proposed very high tariffs on chips from Taiwan, which could hurt many businesses that rely on these products. This move is seen as harmful, especially for Taiwan, which has been a strong ally.
  2. People online are really upset about Trump's tariffs, criticizing the decision and questioning its economic logic. It seems like some are even saying it might lead to more inflation in the U.S.
  3. There are concerns that Taiwan needs to start thinking for itself instead of just following U.S. demands. Building more chip plants in the U.S. could be ruinous for Taiwan's economy.

Links to Consider, 11/8/2024

In My Tribe • 227 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Racism Foreign Relations Economics
  1. Bond markets are reacting to expected inflation, not a debt crisis. This means mortgage rates could rise even if the Fed lowers interest rates.
  2. People notice race because they are naturally group-oriented. Racism stems from our tribal instincts, but it's not built into our thinking.
  3. Fertility rates are dropping worldwide, possibly linked to how technology affects social connections. Research is needed to understand this trend better.

US ambassador arrogantly lectures China ‘threat’: ‘We’re the leader in this region (Asia)’!

Geopolitical Economy Report • 578 implied HN points • 04 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics China US Diplomacy Foreign Relations Global Leadership
  1. US Ambassador Nicholas Burns showcased an arrogant and aggressive attitude towards China, declaring the US as the leader in the Indo-Pacific region.
  2. The US is focusing on competing with China in military power, economy, technology, and human rights, reflecting a rising tension between the two nations.
  3. There is a close relationship between US corporations and the State Department, with US diplomats highlighting the importance of collaboration with the private sector.

Banning TikTok

Points And Figures • 506 implied HN points • 13 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Regulation Foreign Relations National Security Civil Liberties Social media
  1. Banning TikTok raises concerns about government overreach and control over private businesses.
  2. There are complex implications related to the power and influence of Chinese technology and communism in the US.
  3. Questions arise about the balance between individual freedoms and safety when it comes to regulating social media platforms like TikTok.

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.

Xi blasts US ‘containment, encirclement’ of China, Foreign Ministry slams 'hysterical neo-McCarthyism'

Geopolitical Economy Report • 518 implied HN points • 08 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Foreign Relations Geopolitics Diplomacy
  1. President Xi Jinping condemned the US-led Western attempt to contain, encircle, and suppress China.
  2. Foreign Minister Qin Gang criticized the US for pursuing 'hysterical neo-McCarthyism' and aiming to contain and suppress China in all aspects.
  3. Chinese leaders are making assertive statements, signaling a shift in their approach towards standing up against US policies and defending China.

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 International Diplomacy Geopolitics Government 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.

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 History Government Foreign Relations Military
  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.

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.

The Logic of the Chips Escalation

Policy Tensor • 393 implied HN points • 23 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Security Cybersecurity Foreign Relations Military Strategy Government Policy
  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.

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 Election National Security Legislation Foreign Relations Trade
  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.

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 Media Government Elections Foreign Relations Corruption
  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.

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 Neoliberalism Foreign Relations Corporate Influence Economic Policy International Trade
  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.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 03.02.2025

steigan.no • 4 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations Nuclear Weapons International Conflicts Economic Sanctions
  1. If the US goes ahead with a missile defense program ordered by Trump, Russia might expand its nuclear arsenal. This could lead to increased tensions between the two countries.
  2. Trump has temporarily halted US foreign aid, affecting many organizations and causing uncertainty within groups that rely on this funding for their operations.
  3. There is a strong possibility of a trade war between the US and EU, with Trump confirming he plans to impose tariffs on EU goods, which could impact economies on both sides.

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 Economic Policy Foreign Relations Government Institutions
  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.

For Biden, ending Israel’s mass murder in Gaza is a ‘non-starter’

Aaron Mate • 314 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Foreign Relations Conflict resolution Humanitarian Aid Global Alliances
  1. Biden's White House supports Israel's military operations in Gaza, even if they harm civilians, and is not planning to punish Israel for any actions in Rafah.
  2. The Biden administration is continuing to provide weapons and support to Israel, rather than using its influence to demand an end to the assault on Gaza.
  3. The US and its allies are suspending funding for UNRWA and blocking vital aid to Gaza, showing an alignment with Israel's actions and a lack of support for Palestinian well-being.

Are Sanctions Working?

Diane Francis • 579 implied HN points • 06 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Sanctions Economic Policy Foreign Relations International Law War Strategy
  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 Security Alliances NATO Russia
  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.

BIWEEKLY BRIEFLY NOTED: For 2024-12-14 Sa

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 92 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy Healthcare policy Social Policy Foreign Relations
  1. Economic growth in the G-5 has faced challenges due to policy choices, like the Reagan deficits and insufficient public investment. These choices have slowed growth compared to earlier times.
  2. ObamaCare has effectively controlled entitlement spending, shifting the focus to new financial issues. It's become clear that previous crises have changed over time.
  3. Wages for non-managerial workers have started to rise compared to managerial workers. This shift shows a significant change in the workforce that isn't just due to technology but reflects broader social dynamics.

Henry Huiyao Wang: With deal-maker Trump, business cooperation could reset US-China ties

Pekingnology • 52 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations Trade policy Economic Cooperation Political strategy
  1. Trump's business-focused approach could reshape US-China relations. By promoting cooperation through direct investment, both countries might find common ground.
  2. China can learn from Japan's strategy in the 1980s, where investment in US manufacturing helped ease trade tensions. This model shows that collaboration can lead to shared benefits.
  3. American and Chinese companies have a lot to gain from each other. Success stories in both markets highlight how strong business ties can improve relations, even during tough times.

Japan Is Joining “De-Risk From China” Coalition

Japan Economy Watch • 259 implied HN points • 03 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Foreign Relations Economic Policies Global Trade International cooperation
  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 Elections Foreign Relations Trade Regulations Antitrust
  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.

'Hate and lust for vengeance are passed like poison from one generation to the next'

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 110 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations National Security Human Rights
  1. Hate and revenge can be taught from one generation to the next, much like a curse that keeps going.
  2. The actions of powerful countries, like the U.S. and Israel, have serious consequences that may lead to more violence and retribution.
  3. It's important to remember the past and understand that people who suffer might seek revenge, which can lead to cycles of violence that never seem to end.

December 12, 2024

Letters from an American • 13 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations Biden administration Geopolitics
  1. President Biden's recent trip to Angola highlights the importance of Africa's future and the U.S. involvement in strengthening relationships with African nations. The U.S. aims to gain trust from African countries that have historical reasons to be skeptical.
  2. The Lobito Corridor project, which involves building a railway to help transport minerals, is a key investment effort that benefits local economies and global supply chains. It will significantly decrease travel time for transporting goods, making it more efficient and cost-effective.
  3. The changing political landscape in the Middle East, particularly the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, could affect Russia's influence in Africa. This instability offers new opportunities for the U.S. and its allies to support democratic leadership in African countries.

Links to Consider, 3/7

In My Tribe • 318 implied HN points • 07 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Activism Conservatism Foreign Relations
  1. Girard's mimetic theory explains how desires are often copied from others, leading to a cycle of crisis and scapegoating in communities.
  2. Noah Smith points out the shift in progressive causes towards Palestine, indicating a potential change in the unrest of the 2010s.
  3. Charles Kesler highlights the difference between National Conservatism and American Conservatism in terms of prioritizing individual vs. group rights.