The hottest Geopolitics Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

Ukraine and Goliath

Diane Francis • 999 implied HN points • 25 May 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Ukraine is gaining international support by meeting with world leaders. This has helped them secure financial aid and military resources to strengthen their fight.
  2. The battle in Bakhmut has exposed weaknesses in Russia's military. While it has been costly, it has delayed Russian advances and boosted Ukraine's strategic planning.
  3. Ukraine is preparing to improve its air force with advanced jets and defense systems. This will help protect its skies and enhance its military capabilities against Russia.

Russia's Global Genocide

Diane Francis • 999 implied HN points • 22 May 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Putin's war in Ukraine is described as a genocide that threatens food supplies for millions around the world. His actions have severely impacted agriculture in Ukraine, which is known as the 'breadbasket' of Europe.
  2. Landmines and destruction from the war have made farming extremely dangerous and led to a significant drop in crop yields. Experts say it will take years to repair the damage and restore Ukraine's agricultural productivity.
  3. The ongoing conflict is causing a global food crisis, with many people facing hunger and food insecurity. Countries, especially in Africa, are feeling the effects, as they rely heavily on grain exports from Ukraine.

Brazil's Lula travels to China and calls to end US dollar dominance

Geopolitical Economy Report • 657 implied HN points • 16 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Brazil's President Lula da Silva visited China to deepen strategic partnerships and challenge US dollar dominance by signing cooperation agreements, focusing on trading in local currencies.
  2. China is Brazil's largest trading partner, with significant trade surpluses, and both countries have seen substantial growth in bilateral trade over the years.
  3. Political coups in Brazil, backed by the US, led to economic downturns, but under Lula and Dilma, the country advanced, lifting millions out of poverty and shaping key economic relationships.

How My China Tech Beat Fell Apart

ChinaTalk • 993 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Geopolitics
  1. Chinese tech startups are trying to hide their origins to avoid negative stigma in the West. Many founders worry that being labeled as 'Chinese' could hurt their chances of success.
  2. The relationship between Western reporters and Chinese tech entrepreneurs has changed dramatically due to rising geopolitical tensions. Once seen as exciting collaborators, many founders now feel cautious and distrustful.
  3. As regulations increased and opportunities within China shrank, many Chinese companies started to look for growth in international markets. This shift led to tensions between telling their stories and their need to downplay their roots.

Trump boasts he wanted to take Venezuela's oil after overthrowing its government

Geopolitical Economy Report • 637 implied HN points • 15 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Former US President Donald Trump openly expressed his desire to control Venezuela's oil reserves, showing a clear motive behind the 2019 US coup attempt.
  2. The Trump administration's focus on Venezuela's oil resources was evident from various high-ranking officials' statements and actions, aiming to exploit the country's natural wealth.
  3. Venezuelan officials reacted strongly to Trump's statements, condemning them as evidence of US intentions to exploit their country's resources and urging for international legal action.
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Sanctions 'undermine hegemony of dollar', US Treasury admits

Geopolitical Economy Report • 637 implied HN points • 21 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen acknowledged that unilateral sanctions could weaken the dominance of the dollar.
  2. Sanctions have caused millions of deaths around the world, with examples like Iraq and Venezuela.
  3. Yellen implied that US plans involve using some of Russia's seized foreign exchange reserves to fund Ukraine reconstruction, which could have geopolitical implications.

A Deep Dive on Iran

John’s Substack • 11 implied HN points • 14 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. A recent Netanyahu–Trump meeting disappointed Israeli expectations and revealed tensions between allies.
  2. There is no clear or credible military strategy to win a war against Iran, making any such plan highly risky and uncertain.
  3. Many experts are overconfident, claiming the US can easily solve the Iran problem by force and that Ukraine has the upper hand against Russia, despite evidence to the contrary.

The Cold War History of Export Controls

ChinaTalk • 415 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Geopolitics
  1. Export controls on technology have a long history, dating back to the Cold War, and they show how countries try to limit each other's advancements.
  2. The effectiveness of these controls depends heavily on cooperation between countries; without a united approach, it's hard to enforce such regulations.
  3. Tracking where technology goes after it's exported is crucial. If countries can't monitor this, it makes it easy for others to use loopholes and bypass the rules.

Russia Collapses

Diane Francis • 1199 implied HN points • 16 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Many Russians are living in poverty due to the long-lasting war and its effects on the economy. People are struggling with basic needs like heat, water, and jobs.
  2. Putin is not being truthful about the state of the Russian economy. Western sanctions are hurting it badly, and many businesses have shut down as capital is leaving the country.
  3. Russia's energy trade is in trouble because of price caps and Europe moving away from Russian oil and gas. This is leading to a significant drop in state revenues and economic decline.

Breaking History Ep. 29: How to Extract the British Hand from Pakistan

Matt Ehret's Insights • 334 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. In Breaking History Ep. 29, there's discussion on extracting British influence from Pakistan and creating energy sovereignty.
  2. The role of the Belt and Road Initiative, new infrastructure developments, and energy sovereignty in Pakistan is highlighted.
  3. The Bhutto family's legacy in the fight for energy sovereignty and the role of current Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari are discussed.

NATO + Ukraine

Diane Francis • 759 implied HN points • 10 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. NATO is discussing whether to commit to Ukraine's future membership, which many believe is crucial given Ukraine's sacrifices.
  2. Without a clear commitment from NATO, the ongoing conflict may continue longer than necessary.
  3. There's a strong call for NATO to provide Ukraine with a no-fly zone and air support immediately.

Time to talk about the Panama Canal

Material World • 886 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Geopolitics
  1. There are long-standing historical tensions regarding control of the Panama Canal. Many believe the U.S. should still control it because of its significant contributions to building it.
  2. The original treaties around the canal were heavily influenced by American power dynamics, resulting in Panama losing much of its sovereignty at the time.
  3. There's ongoing discussion about building a canal in Nicaragua instead. This could solve some current issues with the Panama Canal, like water shortages and size restrictions for ships.

Against America, Europe Can Become Europe

World Game • 19 implied HN points • 19 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The United States has grown more openly hostile and willing to use economic and military pressure, treating Europe as weak and able to be coerced because of European dependence on American energy, technology and defence.
  2. That pressure could force Europeans to finally unite and assert real sovereignty, driving a strategic break from the United States and the creation of a shared, civilisation-level European identity and state.
  3. Europe must stop assuming values are universal and choose between the transatlantic alliance and an independent European project; preserving European ideals will require sovereignty, hard economic choices, and a clear political identity.

The Khanjar Dial Edition

Why is this interesting? • 784 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Geopolitics
  1. Watches can be much more than just timepieces; they often have interesting histories and connections to culture. The Khanjar dial watches from Oman are a perfect example, blending royal recognition with unique design.
  2. Some watches, like the Khanjar models, are given as gifts and can become valuable over time. A watch gifted to a pilot once sold for £600,000 at auction, showcasing how special pieces can gain worth.
  3. Today, Khanjar dial watches are still given out with discreet engravings, making them rare collectibles. They appeal to watch lovers for their unique stories and connections to royal heritage.

Bearing Witness to Gaza (audio dispatch 14)

The Joyous Struggle • 355 implied HN points • 11 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. When discussing complex issues like the situation in Israel and Gaza, it's important to move beyond simplistic notions of 'goodies and baddies' and approach conversations from a more mature and nuanced perspective.
  2. Understanding different perspectives and historical contexts is crucial in comprehending complex conflicts like the one in Israel and Gaza, and it can help in fostering empathy and effective communication.
  3. Engaging in continual learning, having epistemic humility, and staying politically engaged are essential for the health of open societies and for citizens to understand complex global issues like the situation in Gaza and The Hague.

Is World War III Already Here?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 955 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The world is facing multiple conflicts, making people question if we are on the brink of a world war. There are tensions in places like Ukraine, Syria, and the Korean Peninsula.
  2. Experts believe there is an ongoing economic war alongside real military conflicts, suggesting that current conditions are similar to those before previous world wars.
  3. To avoid escalating wars, it is essential for adversaries to understand that they won't achieve their goals through military force.

X-Change: The Race to the Top

Renewable Revolution • 199 implied HN points • 26 Mar 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Geopolitics
  1. China is currently leading the way in clean technology, especially in solar and battery manufacturing, but the US and Europe are increasing their investments quickly.
  2. Europe has a strong position in generating electricity from solar and wind, while China is ahead in electric vehicle sales with plans to grow even more.
  3. The competition between these regions is good for the world as it drives innovation and reduces costs, speeding up the move away from fossil fuels.

A Midrats January Free For All

CDR Salamander • 314 implied HN points • 29 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Mark & Sal discuss what's happening in the national security world in January 2024.
  2. Topics include Iranian proxies causing military losses and American needs for inventive ideas.
  3. The discussion touches on Iran and America, focusing on a range of events and challenges.

BRICS bloc is adding members, planning new currency to challenge US dollar

Geopolitical Economy Report • 598 implied HN points • 06 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) are expanding and gaining economic and political influence globally.
  2. BRICS members are considering creating a new global reserve currency to challenge the dominance of the US dollar.
  3. The BRICS economies collectively represent a significant share of the global economy, with China contributing the highest share.

The Gathering Storm: Snatch-and-Grab Regime Change is the New New Normal

The Corbett Report • 28 implied HN points • 11 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The Maduro abduction shows a new, bold 'snatch-and-grab' approach to regime change that sidesteps legal norms and leaves many questions about how it was carried out.
  2. Public US statements about seizing resources and ignoring international law reveal a 'mask off' imperial posture where unilateral force and resource grabs are openly justified.
  3. That precedent makes the world more dangerous by encouraging other states to copy these tactics, raising the risk of tit-for-tat raids, wider instability, and escalating conflict.

What's Next for ChinaTalk

ChinaTalk • 756 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Geopolitics
  1. ChinaTalk started as a small project and has grown to have 50,000 subscribers by focusing on tech developments in China.
  2. They aim to provide deep analysis on China's tech landscape, especially regarding AI, to help people understand its global impact.
  3. In 2025, ChinaTalk plans to expand into a think tank, hiring more staff to enhance their research and outreach efforts.

Putin's Other Genocides

Diane Francis • 819 implied HN points • 12 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Putin is using ethnic minorities in Russia to fight in Ukraine, putting them at greater risk of dying in battle. Many of these groups, like Tatars and Mongols, are being forced into the military without proper training.
  2. Russia's treatment of its ethnic minorities has led to growing resentment and activism among these groups. They are starting to organize against the government and some are even supporting Ukraine in the conflict.
  3. The war is revealing deep inequalities in Russia, with minorities facing discrimination and poverty. Activist groups from these regions are emerging to protest and help those targeted by the draft.

PUTIN’S LONG WAR

Seymour Hersh • 26 implied HN points • 20 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The war has now lasted longer than Russia’s fight against Nazi Germany and is causing serious economic harm at home, with businesses closing and shops struggling under international sanctions.
  2. Western intelligence and some senior military figures are frustrated and puzzled that the leader refuses to end the war despite mounting domestic problems and military restlessness.
  3. Growing economic strain and political unrest are sparking talk of possible leadership change, since continued conflict could lead to economic chaos and demands for new rulers.

Can Ukraine find a deal that works?

Comment is Freed • 73 implied HN points • 29 Nov 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Ukraine should not be rushed into arbitrary deadlines and must insist on clear rules for how any Russian input is used, so concessions don’t invite further demands.
  2. An initial 28-point proposal was tightened to 20 points and a negotiating process is underway, but the central sticking point remains Russia’s insistence on territorial concessions.
  3. Ukraine is resilient and will keep fighting, yet it has reasons to engage seriously in talks for a ceasefire; the West should keep military and economic pressure on Russia to encourage concessions while Ukraine picks acceptable terms without capitulating.

The Greatest Illusion

Phillips’s Newsletter • 97 implied HN points • 12 Nov 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Trade specialization does not guarantee peace and security between nations. Just because countries trade a lot doesn't mean they won't go to war.
  2. The idea that economic ties will lead to friendship and reduce conflict has been proven wrong. History shows that war can break out despite strong trade relations.
  3. Countries need to rethink their strategies and vulnerabilities in a changing world. Relying solely on global trade might limit their independence and security.

The Asia Century

Diane Francis • 579 implied HN points • 25 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The main competition in geopolitics is between the U.S. and China, with some experts predicting a return to an Asia-centered world economy. This means that countries like China and India might regain their historical economic dominance.
  2. China still has strong economic momentum, but its growth may face challenges due to increased competition and internal issues like high youth unemployment and economic mismanagement.
  3. Regions like ASEAN are rising in importance and could offer new economic opportunities, as they are already a major trading partner with the West and have diverse economies.

US corporations cash in on Ukraine's oil and gas

Geopolitical Economy Report • 578 implied HN points • 28 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. US corporations like ExxonMobil, Chevron, and Halliburton are in talks to take over Ukraine's oil and gas industry as Ukraine sells off its public assets.
  2. The Ukrainian government is using the war as an excuse to implement aggressive anti-worker laws, treating the country as a for-profit company and pushing for privatization.
  3. Ukraine aims to attract US companies like Halliburton for oil production projects, even as the country seeks to drill for offshore natural gas off Crimea, with the help of the IMF imposing neoliberal reforms.

In Africa, Russia is playing the West like a fiddle

An Africanist Perspective • 573 implied HN points • 09 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Russia's influence in Africa is hyped up in Western media compared to its actual economic and military ties with African states.
  2. African states respond to Russia based on their specific interests and not as puppets, often driven by the desire to access resources at lower costs, especially amidst economic constraints.
  3. African nations should be cautious not to overly rely on Russia militarily or economically, aiming to prioritize domestic sovereignty and economic growth by carefully considering policy decisions and avoid getting deeply entwined with Russia.

The puzzling geopolitics of America's support for proposed World Bank reforms

An Africanist Perspective • 573 implied HN points • 11 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The US is supporting proposed World Bank reforms that shift focus from low-income countries to global public goods, risking a loss in policy influence worldwide.
  2. US structural influence through organizations like the World Bank reflects in policy decisions that align with US interests in low-income countries.
  3. Failure of the World Bank to prioritize needs of low-income countries could lead to a loss of influence for the US and the Bank in those regions.

Interview with Katharine Gun on Iraq Invasion "Anniversary", Her Upbringing in Taiwan, Christianity, Pandemic, Geopolitics and the Future of Humanity

husseini • 569 implied HN points • 18 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Katharine Gun exposed a leak about the US and British governments trying to influence the UN Security Council for the 2003 Iraq invasion.
  2. She was inspired to act after reading work that convinced her there was no real evidence for the war.
  3. Gun's actions may have prevented authorization for the invasion, but it proceeded with support from Bush, Blair, and Biden.

US admits weather pushed Chinese balloon off course, US shot down hobbyists' $12 balloon in $2M missile attack

Geopolitical Economy Report • 637 implied HN points • 19 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. US officials acknowledged the Chinese balloon they shot down was likely blown off course by unexpected weather.
  2. The US Air Force spent roughly $2 million using missiles to destroy a $12 hobbyist balloon, causing unnecessary expenditure.
  3. US intelligence officials later admitted that the Chinese balloon may have been diverted off course by weather, leading to a potential misunderstanding and an unnecessary military response.

Towards American Truly Open Models: The ATOM Project

Democratizing Automation • 237 implied HN points • 04 Aug 25
🕹 Technology Geopolitics
  1. The U.S. needs to focus on developing open AI models to regain its global leadership. This means investing in resources and creating an ecosystem that supports collaboration and research.
  2. China has been gaining ground in AI by using open models that are accessible and flexible. If the U.S. doesn't prioritize open models, American researchers and companies will look elsewhere for innovation.
  3. Building a strong network of multiple labs in the U.S. focused on open model development is crucial. This approach will help encourage growth, innovation, and diversity in AI research.

Ukraine's D-Day

Diane Francis • 779 implied HN points • 08 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Ukraine is using a quiet and strategic approach for their counteroffensive, making small but significant moves to weaken Russia's defenses. They're targeting various fronts, both on land and in the air, to reclaim their territory.
  2. Recent psychological operations from Ukraine aim to spread fear in Russia, including hacking broadcasts to disrupt communications and mimic official announcements. This tactic is intended to create panic among Russian citizens and disrupt military operations.
  3. Criticism of Russia's military leadership is growing, with some insiders suggesting that their troops are not effectively trained and are fleeing from battle. This unrest hints at possible future instability within Russia's political structure.

Saudi, Islam, Russia

Diane Francis • 799 implied HN points • 29 May 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince MBS is a powerful player in global politics. He manages relationships with many major countries while balancing conflicts and alliances.
  2. MBS invited Ukraine's President Zelensky to speak about the struggles of Muslims under Russian control. This could change how Arab nations view their ties with Russia.
  3. MBS has increased Saudi wealth due to rising oil prices from the Ukraine conflict. His ambitious projects and power make him a key figure to watch in international affairs.

Poland's Alarm

Diane Francis • 919 implied HN points • 20 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Poland is increasing its military to protect against Russian threats, wanting to lead Europe in security efforts. This shows Poland's strong belief in standing up to aggressors.
  2. European leaders need to pay attention to warnings about rising threats from Russia and China. If they ignore these problems, it could lead to bigger issues for the whole continent.
  3. There is a need for unity among European countries to ensure their security. Smaller nations are stepping up while larger ones like Germany and France may not be doing enough.

Top Links 761 The limits of China's domestic market. Gold digging in Syria. African drone poliferation & the making of Balamory.

Chartbook • 343 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. China's domestic market has limitations that affect its overall economic growth. Understanding these limits can help us see potential challenges for China's future.
  2. There is ongoing gold mining in Syria, which raises questions about the human and environmental cost. It's important to be aware of the impacts of such activities in conflict zones.
  3. African countries are increasingly using drones, which could change security dynamics on the continent. This shift might lead to both opportunities and risks for the region.