The hottest Geopolitics Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

Europe in the Element of Crisis

World Game • 6 implied HN points • 18 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The EU is an unfinished political project that lives in a constant state of crisis, and many see upheavals as the engine that pushes European integration forward.
  2. The debate now centers on prognosis rather than principle: many critics have become euro-pessimists who doubt the EU's resilience and trust nation states more in emergencies, while supporters treat crises as necessary tests and opportunities for deeper unity.
  3. The 2022 invasion of Ukraine exposed Europe’s key vulnerabilities—overreliance on NATO/US for security and dependence on Russian energy—and has forced Europe to improvise, build strategic independence, and prepare to act more on its own.

Civilizational Rehearsal: Netflix, Geopolitics and the return of narratives in a multipolar world

Taipology • 63 implied HN points • 16 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Geopolitics
  1. Countries outside the Anglosphere are making vivid historical and cultural media that reconnect people to their own civilizations and reach global audiences.
  2. American cultural dominance is weakening as US media often recycles the past and fails to offer fresh, forward-looking civilizational narratives for a changing world.
  3. Cultural fragmentation is pushing geopolitics back toward civilizational thinking. Governments are trying to strengthen civilizational identity because being rootless is seen as a strategic weakness in a multipolar world.

Yoink! Got Your Dictator!

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 53 implied HN points • 03 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The U.S. carried out a military operation that captured Venezuela's president, a major escalation in Latin America that will spark intense domestic political and legal debate over presidential war powers.
  2. The strike puts Venezuelan oil infrastructure and exports at risk and could lift energy prices, while the administration appears likely to try to secure Venezuelan oil, adding market uncertainty.
  3. The action increases tensions with Russia, China, and regional leaders, raising the risk of a geopolitical backlash that could accelerate moves away from the dollar and amplify longer-term financial instability.

America First?

John’s Substack • 12 implied HN points • 17 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Negotiations to end the wars in Ukraine and Iran are mostly performative because the parties’ goals are far apart and meaningful compromise looks unlikely.
  2. The US is relying on inexperienced, partisan private figures rather than seasoned diplomats to run major foreign-policy talks, a sharp contrast with how other great powers handle diplomacy.
  3. Israel and its lobby are exerting strong pressure for US action against Iran despite Iran not posing a clear threat and broad international opposition, highlighting serious ineptitude in US policymaking.

The Shadow Commander Edition

Why is this interesting? • 482 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Qassem Soleimani was a powerful figure in the Middle East who influenced many conflicts, but most people didn't know who he was. His methods involved quiet diplomacy and personal connections rather than flashy displays of power.
  2. Soleimani built a complex network of militias that depended on his relationships and the stories he told. His approach showed that personal influence can sometimes be more powerful than formal agreements.
  3. After his death, the network he created began to weaken. This highlights that even intricate systems can unravel without strong leadership and the personal relationships that fueled them.
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China's Russia

Diane Francis • 1059 implied HN points • 22 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The Russia-Ukraine War may lead to the breakup of Russia, similar to the Soviet-Afghanistan War. Russia is losing allies and financial resources, which could cause some regions to want independence.
  2. China has a significant interest in the resource-rich areas of Russia, especially Manchuria, which used to belong to China. As Russia weakens, China might look to reclaim these lands, boosting its own economy.
  3. The partnership between China and Russia is changing. China is distancing itself from Russia after the Ukraine invasion and is cautiously moving towards the West, showing it might not support Russia like before.

‘LIKE GIVING A DROWNING PERSON A BREATH OF AIR’

Seymour Hersh • 41 implied HN points • 14 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Gaza continues to suffer intense bombing and widespread destruction, causing massive deaths, injuries, and the displacement of hundreds of thousands into makeshift, often flooded tents.
  2. The humanitarian situation is dire: food and basic services are scarce or unaffordable, malnutrition remains widespread, and short bursts of aid cannot reverse long-term starvation and damage to health.
  3. Despite everything, many Palestinians are trying to survive and rebuild by staying in place and even preparing to plant crops, but harsh winter conditions and lack of infrastructure make recovery extremely difficult.

What's The Least Bad Alternative?

John’s Substack • 8 implied HN points • 24 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. There is serious debate about whether the US could or would launch a military attack on Iran.
  2. There’s no clear conclusion on whether an attack will happen, and leaders appear to face only bad choices rather than a viable option.
  3. Given the two bad alternatives, the least bad choice is to refrain from attacking Iran.

Vlad the Terrible

Diane Francis • 1019 implied HN points • 29 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Putin is facing serious challenges to his power after a failed mutiny, showing that his grip on Russia is weakening. Many in his inner circle are worried and uncertain about his leadership.
  2. The oligarchs and elites in Russia are tired of the ongoing war and its negative impact on their businesses. They might push for a change in leadership or a shift in strategy to stabilize the country.
  3. There is potential for a new administration of moderates to emerge, which could lead to negotiations to end the war in Ukraine and help rebuild Russia.

WHAT COMES NEXT IN IRAN?

Seymour Hersh • 21 implied HN points • 04 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Iran is in a deep internal crisis after mass protests were met with a brutal government crackdown that reportedly killed thousands and allowed the Revolutionary Guards to shoot protesters.
  2. Removing the religious leadership would hinge on getting the regular Iranian army—hundreds of thousands of active and reserve troops—to agree to or join any effort to oust the regime.
  3. Israeli and U.S. officials are reportedly discussing plans for how to proceed if a decision is made to push for regime change, and the stance of leaders like Donald Trump could be decisive.

Was Epstein's Empire a Kremlin Honeytrap?

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 16 implied HN points • 04 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The released Epstein documents show more disturbing evidence than expected that many powerful men regularly visited his island and were linked to sexual misconduct.
  2. Bold claims that Epstein was a Kremlin 'honeytrap' or Putin’s wealth manager are dramatic but remain unproven and deserve caution and further investigation.
  3. Large counts of Putin mentions in the files often come from forwarded news clippings, so raw mention totals don’t by themselves prove a direct personal connection.

'World becoming more multipolar', Western hegemony declining, admits European Central Bank

Geopolitical Economy Report • 757 implied HN points • 22 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Western hegemony is declining as the world shifts towards a more multipolar geopolitical landscape.
  2. European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde acknowledged the rise of China and the decline of US dollar hegemony.
  3. The US dollar system has negatively impacted the Global South, undervaluing currencies and creating financial crises.

Israel's Real Existential Threat

Diane Francis • 699 implied HN points • 26 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Israel is facing a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza after its military actions, causing widespread destruction and displacement of civilians. Many worry this could escalate the conflict and create a larger regional war.
  2. Iran and Russia are seen as key players in stirring conflict in the Middle East, with their actions indirectly putting pressure on Israel and its neighbors.
  3. Israel's approach to its military defense has led to backlash and a perception of double standards, affecting its relationships with neighboring countries and global opinion.

The House of Huawei

ChinaTalk • 444 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
💼 Business Geopolitics
  1. Ren Zhengfei, the founder of Huawei, grew up facing hardship during the Cultural Revolution but turned this struggle into his motivation for success. His challenging past helped him build a strong company culture focused on hard work and resilience.
  2. Huawei has grown by exploring high-risk international markets where other companies hesitated, such as Libya and Iraq. This strategic risk-taking allowed Huawei to create valuable global partnerships and expand its business.
  3. The company has faced significant scrutiny from the West, particularly the United States, over security concerns related to its technology. However, Huawei has continued to thrive by emphasizing its importance to China's tech development and fostering a unique corporate culture.

President von der Leyen's WEF Speech Shows She Will Never Let a Good Crisis Go to Waste

THE FREEDOM BLOG • 412 implied HN points • 21 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. President von der Leyen emphasizes the need for businesses and governments to collaborate in addressing the risks of misinformation and disinformation.
  2. The fight against misinformation should consider that it comes from various sources and political biases, not just easily identified malicious actors.
  3. Caution should be exercised in handing over internet regulation to a political elite, as it may lead to power grabs disguised as cooperation.

South Korea Steps Up

Diane Francis • 779 implied HN points • 14 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. South Korea has increased its support for Ukraine, marking a significant shift in its international stance. This is partly due to South Korea's own history of being affected by Russian aggression during the Korean War.
  2. The country has been exporting military supplies to Ukraine and is officially joining its alliance, showcasing its readiness to confront threats from North Korea and Russia.
  3. A South Korean soldier, Sgt Kim Jae-kyung, has actively campaigned for support of Ukraine, reminding people that South Korea received help from many nations in its own time of need.

Turkey's Russia

Diane Francis • 939 implied HN points • 03 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Ramzan Kadyrov, a leader in Chechnya, has shown loyalty to Putin but could also cause trouble in the North Caucasus region. His past actions and armed forces make him a figure to watch closely.
  2. The North Caucasus is home to many non-Russian people who have faced harsh treatment. As Russia weakens, there could be movements for independence in this area.
  3. Many people in the North Caucasus are unhappy with Russia's military actions, especially since they have lost many young men in the conflict. This growing resentment might lead to changes in the region soon.

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
  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.

Why does the US support Israel? A geopolitical analysis with economist Michael Hudson

Geopolitical Economy Report • 617 implied HN points • 13 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. US support for Israel is primarily driven by geopolitical strategies and control over the Middle East region.
  2. The US sees Israel as a military base to exert control over oil reserves in the Middle East and maintain dominance in the global economy.
  3. Historical parallels can be drawn between the Crusades and current US strategies in the Middle East, indicating power struggles for oil resources and global control.

USA vs the world: Blockade on Cuba opposed by 97% of countries at UN

Geopolitical Economy Report • 637 implied HN points • 07 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The United States' embargo against Cuba is opposed by 97% of countries at the United Nations, with only Israel in support and Ukraine abstaining.
  2. The US has maintained a blockade against Cuba for over 60 years, with the goal of causing 'hunger, desperation, and overthrow of government'. This embargo costs Cuba an estimated $159 billion, roughly 150% of its GDP.
  3. Cuba suffers immense economic losses due to the US blockade, with $4.87 billion lost in just a year. The embargo directly harms the Cuban people and is considered a violation of human rights and an act of genocide by Cuba.

Top Links 774 One Big Beautiful Giveaway. How Turkish pistols conquered US markets. The Chinese legacy of Fischer-Tropsch. Haiti's escalating crisis & "where the bombs fall".

Chartbook • 429 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Turkish pistols have become popular in the U.S. market, showing how global trade can shift consumer preferences.
  2. The Fischer-Tropsch process has a significant connection to China, highlighting its impact on industry and energy production.
  3. Haiti is facing serious challenges, and the discussion around it includes concerns about the consequences of conflict.

Russia leaves neoliberal West to join World Majority - Economists Radhika Desai and Michael Hudson explain

Geopolitical Economy Report • 717 implied HN points • 20 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Russia is turning away from the West and moving towards integration with the 'World Majority' in the Global South.
  2. There is a shift towards a multipolar world order, with countries like China and Russia promoting a move away from Western finance capitalism towards a more socialist global majority.
  3. Keynes' proposals for a new international financial system, including bancor and International Clearing Union, are being revisited by China and show a push away from the dominance of the US dollar.

The Demise of the Liberal International Order and the Return of Great Power Rivalry

Glenn’s Substack • 99 implied HN points • 10 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The liberal international order is in decline, which means the traditional alliances and cooperation among countries are weakening. This shift is leading to more competition between powerful nations.
  2. The situation in Ukraine has escalated, showing how tensions between countries are rising and affecting global stability. This is a sign that countries are prioritizing their own interests over collaboration.
  3. The future of US-European relations is uncertain as old partnerships are tested. There's a growing need for these nations to rethink their strategies for dealing with one another and the new world dynamics.

Connecting the Dots this Week: Vanessa Beeley, Cynthia Chung and Dr. Aaron Good

Matt Ehret's Insights • 393 implied HN points • 20 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Upcoming radio show with Vanessa Beeley, Cynthia Chung, and Dr. Aaron Good discussing geopolitics, energy policy, and inside jobs.
  2. Past shows include interviews with historian Anton Chaitkin and Space Commune's Alex Dimitrios, available online.
  3. Additional documentaries and work available on platforms like Amazon and Canadian Patriot.

Asia's Great Power Wars

ChinaTalk • 815 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. East Asian countries have a long history of peaceful coexistence, unlike Europe, where wars were common. They managed to build relationships based on respect and understanding, even with power imbalances.
  2. Many conflicts in East Asia were driven by internal issues rather than outside threats. Most dynasties fell because of internal problems, showing that the real danger often comes from within rather than from other nations.
  3. The idea that smaller nations have to band together against a bigger power like China isn't always true. East Asian countries often engage with China on their own terms, navigating relationships carefully without treating it as a direct threat.

Russian Revisionism

Diane Francis • 699 implied HN points • 18 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Russia has a long history of spreading misinformation to hide the truth about its actions and policies. This dishonesty is a key part of its government strategy.
  2. Two major false narratives are currently promoted by Russia: one is that it is a great empire deserving of pride, and the other is that Ukraine is not a real country invaded by Russia for noble reasons.
  3. Disinformation tactics include tailoring messages to different groups and undermining Ukraine's efforts, showing how Russia manipulates information to divert blame and distract from its own wrongdoings.

What exactly is South Africa getting from its diplomatic dalliance with Russia and other BRICS states?

An Africanist Perspective • 692 implied HN points • 27 May 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. South Africa's exclusion from the G7 Summit suggests a decline in its global influence and ability to engage as a middle power.
  2. Historically, South Africa missed opportunities to establish itself as a key player in Africa, affecting its ability to leverage regional influence.
  3. To enhance its geopolitical position, South Africa can focus on building strong continental partnerships, particularly in sectors like trade, security, and climate issues.

Strategic Blindness

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 21 implied HN points • 25 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Intelligence often exists but leaders fail to act because they expect certainty, stick to predecided plans, and worry more about political optics than reality.
  2. Institutions that rely on outdated models—the 'Maginot mindset'—become brittle and can’t adapt to new forms of attack or surprise, so material strength alone is not enough.
  3. Weakening alliances, the dollar’s long-term status, and sustained gray‑zone pressure show that hard power used transactionally backfires; democracies need to shift from top‑down control to enabling distributed, adaptive responses.

WHAT IS TRUMP’S GAMBIT IN VENEZUELA?

Seymour Hersh • 41 implied HN points • 08 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The Venezuela operation wasn’t just about ousting Maduro — it aimed to cut China off from cheap Venezuelan oil and weaken rivals’ access to energy.
  2. Top U.S. officials framed the action as a superpower prerogative, saying the U.S. can set the rules in its hemisphere and enforce embargoes to control resources.
  3. This approach traces back to a Cheney-era energy strategy, showing the move is driven by long-standing energy geopolitics and could be used next against other suppliers like Iran.

Appeasement at Munich

Thinking about... • 775 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. History shows that appeasing aggressors can lead to greater conflicts. Just like in 1938, giving in can make things worse in the long run.
  2. Ukraine’s resistance has changed the situation. By fighting back, they have prevented further aggression and have kept a major conflict from escalating.
  3. If the U.S. supports appeasement, it risks creating a stronger aggressor. A Russian victory over Ukraine could lead to more wars and even nuclear threats in the future.

A New World Order

Diane Francis • 679 implied HN points • 14 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. A new global order is forming as powers like India and Saudi Arabia are stepping up, while Russia and China face challenges. This shift is changing how countries interact in the world.
  2. The G20 is evolving to include more voices from the Global South, especially after the African Union joined. This hints at a more balanced power dynamic in global discussions.
  3. India has been gaining influence, showing its potential as a leader for developing nations. It's boosting its economy and connections, moving ahead with significant projects like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.

China & Russia pledge 'changes not seen in 100 years': Xi & Putin take aim at US dollar hegemony

Geopolitical Economy Report • 677 implied HN points • 26 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. China & Russia are challenging US dollar hegemony by promoting trade in yuan and national currencies
  2. Bilateral trade between China and Russia is rapidly growing, hitting record highs and expected to surpass $200 billion in 2023
  3. Russia is expanding energy cooperation with China, exemplified by projects like the Power of Siberia gas pipeline

US Congress plots to save dollar dominance amid global de-dollarization rebellion

Geopolitical Economy Report • 677 implied HN points • 28 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The US Congress held a hearing about the global movement toward de-dollarization, with concerns over challenges from China and Russia to the US financial system dominance.
  2. Lawmakers discussed how aggressive US sanctions weakened dollar dominance, pushing countries to seek alternative financial systems.
  3. Experts highlighted the economic benefits of the dollar's dominance, like lower borrowing costs and savings for the US economy, while warning about potential threats.

What Venezuela Means

KERFUFFLE • 35 implied HN points • 04 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. International rules that limit war and protect state sovereignty are fragile but crucial; giving them up risks more violence and lawlessness.
  2. Those who cheer the end of a rules-based order underestimate how quickly that leads to a darker world where the strong oppress the weak.
  3. The recent military attack on Venezuela is a warning sign that this shift is happening, and people in safer countries shouldn't assume they're insulated.

New Episode! #24 - Samo Burja - How to Prevent Civilizational Collapse

Win-Win • 79 implied HN points • 21 Jun 24
🎙 Podcasts Geopolitics
  1. Bureaucratic growth can weaken institutions and slow down decision-making. It's important to streamline and maintain efficiency in governance.
  2. Understanding the difference between tacit (unspoken) and explicit (clearly defined) knowledge is crucial for effective organization and leadership.
  3. Different systems of governance, like democracy and monarchy, have their own strengths and weaknesses that can impact how societies function.

Expel Russia from UN

Diane Francis • 1099 implied HN points • 01 May 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Russia should not be on the UN Security Council because it is acting like a dictator and has committed war crimes. This is similar to putting a criminal in charge of the police.
  2. The UN Security Council has not been able to do its job because of Russia's veto power. A country that causes problems shouldn't have the ability to stop solutions.
  3. Countries like Ukraine and India deserve a permanent seat on the Security Council because of their significant contributions to the world. The UN should be reformed to reflect current realities and not be held back by a single nation.