The hottest Geopolitics Substack posts right now

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Top World Politics Topics

Ukrainian Drone Strategy Against Russian Energy Infrastructure: Part Two

Glen’s Substack • 39 implied HN points • 26 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics International Conflict Military Strategy Geopolitics Defense Policy
  1. Ukraine has improved its drone technology, with new models like Nynja and Lyutyi enabling long-range attacks on Russian energy facilities. This has allowed them to expand their strike capabilities significantly.
  2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is crucial for these drones, helping them navigate through Russian defenses and improve accuracy. This technology allows drones to operate autonomously without satellite communication.
  3. There has been a shift in Ukraine's military stance, demonstrating confidence in using drones for strategic strikes. Successful attacks on key refinery components can cripple Russian operations and reduce their oil refining capacity.

Offense not Defense

Diane Francis • 639 implied HN points • 22 Dec 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics War Diplomacy Military International relations
  1. Zelensky met with Biden and spoke to Congress, gaining support for Ukraine and pushing for more weapons to go on the offense against Russia. This move shows Ukraine's determination to regain control and not just defend.
  2. Despite Russia's threats and ongoing aggression, Zelensky believes a nuclear strike from Putin is unlikely, as it would endanger his own life. He focuses on the resilience and unity of the Ukrainian people during tough times.
  3. Sanctions against Russia are working, and there's a strong belief among Ukrainians that they will win the war. They remain hopeful and supportive of each other, continuing their celebrations and traditions even amid adversity.

Vicki Victae

Fisted by Foucault • 236 implied HN points • 10 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Philosophy US Politics Russia Satire
  1. The Seventh Seal is a timeless movie loved for its themes of good and evil, faith and reason, and more, making it a perfect film.
  2. Death in The Seventh Seal is portrayed as a character that awaits no one, honest in his fatalistic inevitability.
  3. Victoria Nuland, a serious figure, symbolizes a US Empire focus on a Trotskyite jihad against Russia throughout her career.

Putin's New Peril

Diane Francis • 879 implied HN points • 22 Aug 22
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Conflict analysis Political theory Russian Politics
  1. The recent assassination of Alexander Dugin's daughter in Moscow has shaken Russia and raised questions about its leadership. This event might signal internal strife within Russian powers as high-profile killings are uncommon there.
  2. Dugin, known as 'Putin's Rasputin', has greatly influenced Putin's policies. His ideas promote a confrontational stance against the West and support for aggressive tactics, including the ongoing war in Ukraine.
  3. Dugin's philosophy isn't limited to Russia; it has connections to far-right movements worldwide. The assassination could change public support for Putin's war, potentially increasing tensions within Russia and changing the war's dynamics.

Ukraine's New World Order

Diane Francis • 679 implied HN points • 14 Nov 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Military Strategy Conflict Studies Sovereignty
  1. Ukraine's recapture of Kherson shows they are strong and determined to push Russian forces out. This event has shifted the balance in the war and increased support from Western nations.
  2. The conflict has exposed Russia's weaknesses and united many countries against its aggression. This unity may change the geopolitical landscape and weaken Russia's influence worldwide.
  3. A peaceful resolution might not be possible now, as Ukraine wants to restore its borders completely. They are ready to continue fighting to ensure a future without Russian threats.
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How to Beat Russia

Diane Francis • 719 implied HN points • 24 Oct 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Military Strategy International relations Conflict resolution National Security
  1. Putin controls Russia like a mobster, using fear and intimidation to maintain power. He started a war in Ukraine out of greed and desperation, not because of NATO threats.
  2. For Ukraine to succeed, the West must fully support it. This includes military aid and using frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine's defense.
  3. If Russia wins this conflict, it could lead to more aggression in Europe. It’s crucial for Ukraine to win, or else other countries could be next on Putin's list.

Putin Must Pay

Diane Francis • 639 implied HN points • 05 Dec 22
🌍 World Politics International relations Foreign Policy Geopolitics Economic Sanctions
  1. There are serious concerns about funding for Ukraine as some American lawmakers are against sending more money. This shows that support for Ukraine is facing challenges both in the U.S. and Europe.
  2. There is a push for confiscating Russian assets, estimated at hundreds of billions, to help fund Ukraine's reconstruction. Many believe Russia should be held accountable for the costs of the war it started.
  3. Legal frameworks are being discussed in various countries to enable the seizure of Russian assets, but action is needed urgently to support Ukraine's defense against Russia's aggression.

Sino-Soviet Split 2.0

ChinaTalk • 370 implied HN points • 05 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Alliances Geopolitics Autocracies Diplomacy
  1. The partnership between Russia and China may not be as strong as it seems, with a 75% chance of it collapsing due to differing views on separatism.
  2. China and Russia have different perspectives on separatism, with China focusing on maintaining territorial unity while Russia supports separatist movements in neighboring regions.
  3. The stability of the alliance between China and Russia is questionable, and smart diplomatic maneuvering by democracies can help exploit the ideological cracks between these two powerful autocracies.

Fortress North America

Diane Francis • 679 implied HN points • 20 Oct 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Energy Policy Geopolitics Environmental Issues Resource Management Economic strategy
  1. Germany's move to stop using nuclear power made it depend on Russian energy, highlighting how important energy independence is for countries. Now, many are reconsidering their energy policies.
  2. North America could work better together to manage its energy resources and reduce reliance on OPEC countries. By teaming up, the U.S., Canada, and Mexico could supply energy to themselves and help allies like Europe.
  3. Fossil fuels will still be necessary for a long time, and using a mix of energy sources, including renewables and nuclear, is realistic. Proper planning can help reduce emissions while still meeting energy needs.

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.

AI Roundup 092: Watermarking the AI wave

Artificial Ignorance • 29 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🕹 Technology AI Geopolitics Software Security Innovation
  1. Google DeepMind created a system called SynthID-Text to watermark AI-generated text, but it's not foolproof and can be easily bypassed.
  2. Major AI companies are partnering with US defense agencies, showing a shift towards military applications in AI, despite earlier hesitations in Silicon Valley.
  3. Amazon's Alexa platform has had mixed success over ten years, mainly being used for basic tasks, but new AI advancements could improve its functionality.

China 'counters US dollar hegemony' with gold reserves, Argentina yuan currency swap deal

Geopolitical Economy Report • 299 implied HN points • 10 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics De-dollarization International relations Global Economy
  1. China is increasing its gold reserves and signing yuan currency swap deals with countries like Argentina to counter US dollar dominance and promote the use of the renminbi.
  2. Central banks worldwide are diversifying their reserves away from the US dollar, with increased interest in investing in the renminbi to move towards a multipolar currency system.
  3. Argentina is strengthening ties with China through currency swap deals, enhancing economic integration with Brazil, and exploring the creation of a sovereign Latin American currency for regional trade.

The apocalypse we choose

Thinking about... • 350 implied HN points • 03 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict Democracy International relations Geopolitics Foreign Policy
  1. Mike Johnson's actions as Speaker of the House are enabling Russian aggression in Ukraine and risking turning the world towards tyranny
  2. Ukrainian resistance is crucial in halting genocide and preventing nuclear proliferation
  3. American assistance to Ukraine is essential in supporting democracy, preventing catastrophe, and maintaining global stability

Ukraine's Turning Point

Diane Francis • 6 HN points • 22 Aug 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Military Strategy Conflict analysis Russian Politics
  1. Ukraine's recent military actions have turned the tide of the war, causing significant distress for Russia. This bold move has shown Ukraine's strength and highlighted weaknesses within Russia.
  2. Key figures in Russia are publicly questioning Putin's leadership and the war efforts. This shift indicates growing unrest and doubt about the government's stability among the elite.
  3. International dynamics are shifting as world leaders see Russia's struggles. Countries like India and Germany are considering more involvement, which could change the course of support for Ukraine.

Two Ways of Looking at Regime Change in Syria

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 65 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Regime Change International relations Geopolitics Military conflict
  1. The recent change in Syria's leadership has sparked a debate about whether it is a victory for the people or leads to greater suffering. It highlights how different perspectives can shape views on political events.
  2. The U.S. and its allies have been involved in Syria's conflict, allegedly using covert operations to support rebel groups against the Assad regime. This involvement points to a complex web of interests in the region.
  3. The aftermath of the regime change raises concerns about what comes next for Syria. There is a fear that replacing one authoritarian regime with another could lead to a destabilized state similar to Libya.

Putin's Dark Prince

Diane Francis • 519 implied HN points • 09 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Military Affairs Political Leadership Geopolitics Conflict Studies
  1. Yevgeny Prigozhin is a strong contender to succeed Putin because he controls the Wagner Group and has gained wealth during the war. He’s known for being close to Putin and has military influence, which sets him apart from other political figures.
  2. Prigozhin's Wagner Group has been involved in brutal actions, including recruiting prisoners to fight in Ukraine and executing deserters. This shows how ruthless and powerful his group is within Russia's conflict landscape.
  3. After Putin, Russia might face a chaotic power struggle with various factions vying for control. This could lead to political infighting and disintegration, similar to past historical events in Russian history.

EU confesses 'our prosperity was based on China & Russia': cheap energy, low-paid labor, big market

Geopolitical Economy Report • 398 implied HN points • 20 Oct 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Economic Policy Security International relations
  1. European prosperity relied on cheap energy from Russia and China's market
  2. EU is facing a crisis due to increased cost of living and competitiveness in global markets
  3. Europe acknowledges a shift away from US security and towards becoming dependent on US energy

Peak American Empire

Philoinvestor • 216 implied HN points • 25 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Global Economy
  1. The dominance of the US dollar is at risk due to changing global dynamics and potential shifts away from the Petrodollar Agreement.
  2. The US military's extensive expenditure is becoming unsustainable in the face of rising global competition and economic changes.
  3. The world is transitioning towards a multipolar order with increased conflict and alternative power structures, marking a decline in traditional American hegemony.

The 'discounted' Yandex offload

The PhilaVerse • 247 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
💼 Business Technology Geopolitics Finance
  1. Yandex is selling its remaining Russian businesses for $5.2 billion due to a mandatory discount imposed by the Russian government.
  2. The transaction involves cash in Chinese Yuan and is led by a consortium of senior managers and investors.
  3. Yandex aims to recover value for divested businesses, unlock growth for international businesses, and allow divested businesses to operate under new ownership.

Putin's genocidal myth

Thinking about... • 361 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Historical revisionism Geopolitics Nationalism Genocide Russian history Soviet Union Historical revisionism
  1. Putin's narrative about eternal Russia leads to war, genocide, and fascism.
  2. Putin's selective view of history distorts facts and justifies aggressive actions like invading neighbors and committing genocide.
  3. Putin's attempt to rewrite history to fit his narrative is dangerous and leads to a distorted view of the past that justifies atrocities.

Top Links 385 China's vanishing statistics, Mexico's investment boom, why German carmakers don't want tariffs on Chinese EV & the Rangoon School

Chartbook • 329 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Activism History
  1. The post highlights various topics like China's vanishing statistics, Mexico's investment boom, why German carmakers dislike tariffs on Chinese EVs, and the Rangoon School.
  2. Adam Tooze's Chartbook Newsletter includes interesting links, readings, and images.
  3. The featured portrait is of General Aung San, a significant Burmese politician and independence leader who was tragically assassinated before he could see Myanmar gain independence from British rule.

Russia's Tragic Troika

Diane Francis • 719 implied HN points • 01 Sep 22
🌍 World Politics Russia Leadership History Geopolitics Conflict
  1. Mikhail Gorbachev tried to improve Russia by ending the Cold War and allowing more freedom, but his changes led to chaos and the fall of the Soviet Union. Many in the West praise him, while people in Russia hold a different view.
  2. Boris Yeltsin, who followed Gorbachev, struggled with corruption and poor leadership, which made life tough for Russians. He gave power to Vladimir Putin, who eventually took control and changed the country into a more authoritarian regime.
  3. The three leaders—Gorbachev, Yeltsin, and Putin—represent different challenges for Russia. Instead of working for the people, their actions often hurt the nation and fueled ongoing problems both at home and abroad.

The secondary and tertiary effects of recent unveilings

TP’s Substack • 57 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Military Affairs Defense technology Geopolitics International relations
  1. China is developing advanced aircraft like the J-36, which is expected to have significant capabilities, including powerful radar and electronic warfare systems. This could change the balance of air power in the region.
  2. The J-36's range allows it to extend China's air dominance much further away from its borders, making it vital for potential military operations in areas like Guam and the South China Sea.
  3. This military advancement may pressure the U.S. to upgrade its own aircraft programs, potentially delaying their timelines and affecting their ability to defend allies in East Asia.

Incredible India

Diane Francis • 479 implied HN points • 19 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Economic Growth Geopolitics Social Issues
  1. India has recently surpassed China as the most populous nation and is experiencing rapid economic growth. It's now the fifth-largest economy, moving towards becoming the third-largest by 2030.
  2. The government has introduced biometric ID cards for citizens, which help people access many services efficiently. This has reduced corruption in aid transfers, benefiting the poorest citizens.
  3. India's geopolitical influence is growing, as it balances relationships with many global powers. With its economic strength and involvement in groups like the G20, India is becoming an important player on the world stage.

Putin's Recession

Diane Francis • 499 implied HN points • 05 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Conflict Economics Security International relations
  1. The war between Russia and Ukraine is causing major economic problems worldwide, including inflation and slow growth. It's clear that the conflict is not ending soon and will have lasting effects.
  2. Economic forecasts for 2023 are not looking good, with many experts predicting recessions in Europe and slow growth globally. Despite this, some polls show that many people are still hopeful for improvement compared to last year.
  3. There are rising tensions worldwide, with countries like the US and NATO increasing military spending. Meanwhile, there's a chance for stronger unity in Europe against threats, particularly from Russia.

Three Globalisations and a Geopolitical Game of Chinese Weather Checkers

Agribusiness Matters • 98 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Geoengineering
  1. Agribusinesses are adapting to a new era of 'strategic capitalism', with a focus on geopolitical maneuvers.
  2. Countries like India and China are enhancing food security through measures like launching procurement portals and diversifying import sources for pulses.
  3. China's geopolitical hunger games involve tactics like weather modification, river water obstruction, and artificial islands to gain a strategic advantage.

No Hostage Deal, So Far

Pieter’s Newsletter • 119 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Negotiations Conflict Hostages Geopolitics
  1. No clear details on the hostage negotiations are available yet, creating uncertainty on the terms and outcome.
  2. Israel's objectives of eliminating Hamas and ensuring hostages' release are proving incompatible, leading to tough decisions.
  3. A potential peace deal involving the release of prisoners, ceasefire, and support goods brings uncertainty and geopolitical implications.

Russia's Armaggedon-ism

Diane Francis • 599 implied HN points • 17 Oct 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Military Strategy International relations Nuclear Issues Conflict resolution
  1. Russia's use of nuclear threats has mostly backfired, making Ukraine more determined and leading to increased support for military aid from the West.
  2. Despite claiming nuclear readiness, Russia has not prepared its military for actual nuclear deployment, showing that these threats are mainly for intimidation.
  3. The war has led to a stronger alliance among Western nations and a shift in Putin's strategy towards recruiting more troops instead of relying on nuclear options.

Strategic or tactical? China’s leaders have tried hard to reassure investors. The wisdom of Chinese philosopher Hu Shih comes to mind: “More study of problems, less talk of ‘isms’”.

Wang Xiangwei's Thought of the Day on China • 196 implied HN points • 03 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics China Economy Foreign Policy Reform Geopolitics
  1. China's leaders are working hard to reassure investors amid economic challenges.
  2. There is skepticism surrounding China's commitment to its reform and opening up policies.
  3. Recent measures suggest China is addressing concerns about legal protections for entrepreneurs.

November 11, 2024

Letters from an American • 21 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Parties Geopolitics Governance
  1. The Taliban celebrated Trump's election, seeing it as a chance to improve ties with the U.S. They hope he'll back their strict policies, like banning girls' education.
  2. There is confusion within the Republican Party after Trump’s win. Trump wants to control appointments and leadership roles, but traditional Republicans are pushing back against his demands.
  3. Despite Trump's victory, many voters supported Democratic policies, like abortion rights and minimum wage increases, showing a gap between Trump's agenda and what people actually want.

Russia: A Terrorist State

Diane Francis • 619 implied HN points • 29 Sep 22
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Security Studies Terrorism
  1. Russia is accused of being a terrorist state due to its actions in Ukraine and against European energy infrastructure. This has led to calls for it to be designated a state sponsor of terrorism.
  2. The sabotage of gas pipelines has heightened tensions in Europe, causing market disturbances and urgency in securing alternative energy supplies as winter approaches.
  3. There's growing concern about Russian citizens fleeing mobilization, as some may pose security risks in Europe, highlighting the need for vigilance among European nations.

Peking Playbook 20241124

Pekingnology • 67 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Diplomacy Military Affairs China relations
  1. China's People's Liberation Army is focusing on military legal governance, encouraging its officers to read Xi Jinping's statements on this topic. They want to ensure the military follows the law properly.
  2. There will be new rules from the Chinese government about how internet algorithms work. The aim is to avoid showing too much of the same content and to protect workers in the gig economy.
  3. China has expanded its visa-free travel program to include 38 countries, making it easier for people to visit. This change is meant to boost tourism and improve international relationships.

China's Putin Problem

Diane Francis • 559 implied HN points • 27 Oct 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Diplomacy Conflict Economics
  1. China is trying to distance itself from Russia due to the negative impact of Putin's actions on its reputation and economy. Xi Jinping is making cautious moves to show he's not fully aligned with Moscow.
  2. A meeting between Xi and Biden could help improve China's international standing and address shared concerns about Russia's nuclear threats. It could also lead to better trade relationships for China.
  3. China faces serious domestic challenges, including economic downturns and issues with foreign investment. Xi needs to address these problems and find a way to mend fences with other nations.

Taiwan's former parliamentary speaker proposes "separate jurisdictions, one sovereignty"

Pekingnology • 56 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict resolution Peace Studies Geopolitics Cross-strait relations
  1. A former Taiwanese leader suggests that Taiwan and mainland China can have separate governments but still share one sovereignty. He believes this could lead to better relations and peace.
  2. He emphasizes the importance of understanding each side's history and respecting each other's ways of life. This mutual respect is key to resolving tensions.
  3. The leader calls for more communication and collaboration between the two sides. He thinks that building trust can help improve the situation and create a brighter future.

Putin Challenges the West to a Duel

John’s Substack • 10 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Military Affairs International relations Conflict Studies Diplomacy
  1. Putin is seen as directly challenging Western countries, hinting at a serious conflict. This creates tension and uncertainty in international relations.
  2. There's a focus on the situation in Ukraine, highlighting ongoing concerns and unsettling discussions about war.
  3. The dialogue around these issues feels bleak, suggesting that problems are expected to persist into the future.