The hottest Geopolitics Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

Alfred McCoy: Controlling the 'World Island'

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 45 implied HN points • 08 Aug 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Western powers have long tried to control Asia, referred to as the 'world island,' for its vast resources and strategic importance.
  2. Geopolitics, the use of geography for military and economic advantage, has shaped strategies for empire management throughout history.
  3. The U.S. has focused on dominating the Pacific coast to ensure its global influence, which is now challenged by China's growing presence and ambitions in the region.

'Twas the Night Before WWIII

Pryor Questions • 485 implied HN points • 06 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. 'Twas the night before WWIII, with tension in the air as nations played a high-stakes geopolitical game.
  2. World leaders spoke of peace and goodwill, but their actions hinted at ulterior motives.
  3. The narrative painted a grim picture of a capitalist Santa with dark, profit-driven ambitions.

JJM vs. Kishore Mahbubani

John’s Substack • 5 implied HN points • 15 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. John J. Mearsheimer and Kishore Mahbubani appeared together on Tom Switzer’s podcast "Switzerland" on December 21, 2025.
  2. They focused on the rise of China and debated how the United States should respond to that challenge.
  3. They also covered a range of other geopolitical issues, speaking as friends and intellectual rivals.

Who is Sovereignty For?

I Might Be Wrong • 5 implied HN points • 14 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Sovereignty means each state controls its own affairs and outsiders are expected not to interfere. That idea helped stop religious wars by allowing different beliefs to coexist under their own rules.
  2. Sovereignty can shield authoritarian rulers from outside intervention, creating a dilemma when citizens try to overthrow abusive regimes. Recent uprisings highlight the tension between popular demands for change and the norm of noninterference.
  3. Making sovereignty absolute reduced religiously motivated massacres but shifted conflict toward competition over territory and resources. In short, sovereignty brings order but can also legitimize bad governments and new forms of violence.

Siberia

Diane Francis • 539 implied HN points • 07 Feb 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin met during the Beijing Winter Olympics to discuss their stance against NATO's expansion. They are wary of NATO and want to strengthen their partnership.
  2. Their joint statement was long and detailed, showing they are serious about their alliance. However, Xi did not fully endorse everything Putin does.
  3. The meeting highlights the growing relationship between Russia and China, especially as both face challenges from the West. They aim to support each other in various ways.
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Dynasty

The Global Jigsaw • 99 implied HN points • 06 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Indonesia's upcoming elections in 2024 reveal a potential political dynasty forming under President Jokowi, despite his image as an anti-dynast.
  2. The removal of age requirements for presidential candidates in Indonesia and familial ties influencing political decisions raise questions about democratic norms.
  3. Lessons from Indonesia's political landscape, where dynastic politics persist, serve as a reminder to other nations, like India, to consider broader changes in political structures and power sharing.

Ukraine's Trojan Trucks

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 66 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Ukraine executed a surprise drone attack deep inside Russia that damaged a significant part of its nuclear capabilities. This shows Ukraine's military skill and creativity.
  2. The success of this operation highlights gaps in Russia's defense and intelligence, suggesting it may struggle to maintain its military strength. This could change the balance of power in the region.
  3. The use of cheap drones against a nuclear power illustrates a new direction in warfare. It raises questions about traditional military strategies and defenses for all nations, including the U.S.

Mastermind: Gary Kasparov on the Global Leadership Vacuum

The Octavian Report • 8 implied HN points • 23 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. There is a global leadership vacuum and short-term politics are weakening democracies and international institutions, which lets extremists and rivals gain influence.
  2. Authoritarian leaders operate like poker players, using secrecy, chaos, corruption, and tactical provocations to undermine NATO, the EU, and democratic norms instead of playing a transparent long-term game.
  3. The remedy is strong, early deterrence and renewed American-led moral and strategic leadership with long-term planning, because if leaders don’t act the vacuum will be filled by hostile actors.

Risky Business: Ian Bremmer on Political Risk, Russia, North Korea, and Trump

The Octavian Report • 8 implied HN points • 23 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Political risk is now the primary global uncertainty, with higher chances of direct military clashes between major powers and a broader geopolitical slowdown.
  2. The current U.S. presidency increases unpredictability and erodes traditional guardrails, raising the risk of accidental conflicts while also making unusual diplomatic outcomes, like a deal with North Korea, more conceivable.
  3. Cyber attacks and other non-nuclear threats are growing and hard to deter or attribute, and the old rules-based global order is fragmenting into more regional, thematic, or multi-stakeholder systems.

Yes, we still need the military

The Novelleist • 380 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The idea that we may still need a military even without traditional nation-states.
  2. The necessity for powerful militaries to achieve sovereignty, even in emerging network states.
  3. The significance of industrial capacity in shaping the future of warfare and military defense.

US waging 'unilateral' economic and tech war to halt China's rise, DC insiders say openly

Geopolitical Economy Report • 179 implied HN points • 25 Oct 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. US government is imposing aggressive sanctions on China to hinder its tech sector and economic growth, openly admitted by Washington policymakers and industry analysts.
  2. The Joe Biden administration has taken drastic measures such as blocking China from importing key tech components like semiconductors and supercomputer parts.
  3. There are concerns that the US unilateral actions, primarily framed as national security measures, could backfire and have negative impacts on US universities and global technology advancement.

Xmas Eve with The Judge

John’s Substack • 8 implied HN points • 24 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Free speech is eroding across Western countries and that decline is presented as a serious threat to democratic life.
  2. There are signs of a renewed aggressive U.S. foreign policy — from talk of annexing Greenland to harsher actions in Cuba and Venezuela and risky naval moves that could provoke China.
  3. Tensions over Israel are growing both inside the Republican Party and between leaders, with claims like Trump being labeled the "first Jewish president" and pressure from Netanyahu to attack Iran raising the risk of new Middle East conflict.

Imperial And China

Surfing the Future • 39 implied HN points • 06 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Geopolitical trends will impact the sustainability revolution, causing controversy as the sector grows.
  2. China's focus on solar cells, lithium-ion batteries, and EVs is reshaping the sustainability sector's priorities.
  3. Collaboration between scientists and companies linked to China's military is now raising concerns compared to the past.

Germany's Folly

Diane Francis • 539 implied HN points • 27 Jan 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Germany is shutting down its nuclear plants, which is risky. This decision has made them rely more on energy from Russia.
  2. The move away from nuclear energy could harm Germany and Europe in the long run. It's raising concerns about energy security.
  3. This situation highlights the challenges of energy policy and its consequences on a country's independence and safety.

The apocalypse we choose

Thinking about... • 350 implied HN points • 03 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  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

Valaris. Unlocking more value.

Philoinvestor • 98 implied HN points • 11 Mar 23
💰 Finance Geopolitics
  1. Valaris has the largest fleet of rigs and the best balance sheet after relieving itself from massive debt in 2021
  2. Constructive oil price environment is driving major oil companies to allocate capital to offshore projects, benefiting Valaris
  3. Geopolitical tensions and increasing demand for offshore rigs due to supply security concerns are creating opportunities for Valaris

Chinese Chess

Diane Francis • 379 implied HN points • 04 Jul 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The handover of Hong Kong to China in 1997 was met with mixed emotions, and many people felt that the promised freedoms were never truly kept. Instead of a democratic system, China imposed its authority and control over the region.
  2. Over the years, Hong Kong has faced serious issues like a decline in human rights, a growing wealth gap, and crumbling living conditions for many residents. These problems have led to a loss of faith in its future as a financial center.
  3. Despite its challenges, Hong Kong remains important as a gateway to China for investments. However, due to continuous repression, many educated individuals are leaving, which threatens its status and stability.

Putin's genocidal myth

Thinking about... • 361 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  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.

Europe's Troubles Are Just Begining

John’s Substack • 10 implied HN points • 10 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Europe looks set to face growing instability as the Ukraine war and other geopolitical pressures continue to unfold.
  2. Some political leaders are seeking legal shortcuts like asking for pardons before convictions, which undermines norms of justice and accountability.
  3. The U.S. policy of killing people in small boats near Venezuela is highly controversial and hard for officials to defend, and staying outside the ICC limits the risk of international prosecution.

Time to Double Down

Diane Francis • 459 implied HN points • 31 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Russia is being described as a criminal organization driven by a passionate leader. They seem focused on taking control of parts of Ukraine.
  2. The message emphasizes the need for a strong response to aggression, implying that weakness won't lead to good outcomes.
  3. There's a sense that the situation calls for serious commitment and action, rather than avoiding tough choices.

Europe's Moment of Truth

Comment is Freed • 109 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is very important for Europe and needs careful analysis. It's crucial to rely on trustworthy sources and check what key players are saying to understand their priorities.
  2. Conflicts evolve in stages, so it's not wise to make firm predictions about the future. Instead, it's better to explore possible developments based on the current situation.
  3. Recent changes in U.S. support, especially Trump's comments about Zelensky, create uncertainty for Ukraine. This makes it vital to stay informed about how negotiations with Russia may influence future support.

Occupying Europe without Troops

Diane Francis • 499 implied HN points • 14 Feb 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The situation with Russia and Ukraine is tense, with uncertainty about a possible invasion. Countries like France and Germany are trying to negotiate with Putin while others have pulled their diplomats out.
  2. Ukraine's leaders are considering not applying to join NATO, which could change the dynamics of their security relations. This decision is being discussed amid rising pressure from Russia.
  3. The reactions from various nations highlight the complexities of international diplomacy and the differing strategies to handle the crisis in Europe.

Davos Impressions and Ukraine: Dealing with a Cult

Phillips’s Newsletter • 124 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Visiting Davos can give insights into the current global situation, though the information may not be completely reliable. It helps in understanding different perspectives on important issues.
  2. There's a perception that American views on Ukraine are somewhat cult-like, focused mainly on understanding their leader's thoughts. This can create a narrow viewpoint.
  3. European leaders seem to recognize the danger of this mindset surrounding Ukraine but often try to appease it instead of addressing the underlying issues.

Venezuela and Iran sign 20-year cooperation plan, Maduro pledges joint 'anti-imperialist struggle'

Geopolitical Economy Report • 259 implied HN points • 12 Jun 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Venezuela and Iran signed a 20-year cooperation agreement focusing on energy, technology, and trade, emphasizing an 'anti-imperialist struggle.'
  2. The agreement covers various sectors like science, technology, agriculture, oil and gas, petrochemicals, tourism, and culture.
  3. This pact showcases a trend of South-South cooperation against Western imperialism, with Iran and Venezuela facing common challenges like unilateral US sanctions.

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
  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.

Weekend Update #103: North Korea shows itself to be a Great Ally

Phillips’s Newsletter • 177 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Geopolitics
  1. North Korean combat troops may soon join Russia in the Ukraine war, which could change the dynamics on the battlefield. Ukraine's leaders believe over 10,000 troops are being prepared to fight.
  2. Despite claims of rapid Russian advances, the actual progress on the ground has been minimal, raising concerns about the strategy of limiting support for Ukraine. The slow pace of advances suggests a grinding war continues.
  3. President Zelensky has proposed a five-point victory strategy for Ukraine, but there is little support from Western allies, particularly the US, making the situation challenging for Ukraine as it seeks increased military aid.

The US Seems to Be Deliberately Weakening its Global Position

Phillips’s Newsletter • 120 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Geopolitics
  1. The US is becoming weaker on the global stage, which affects its influence and power. This might lead to challenges in maintaining its leadership in international matters.
  2. Alliances between countries are more powerful than relying on individual nations alone. Strong partnerships can help ensure security and success in conflicts.
  3. China's economic strength is growing, and when considering purchasing power, it may be leading over the US. This shows that economic measures can change the perception of power between countries.

Calling Vlad's Bluff

Diane Francis • 519 implied HN points • 13 Jan 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Many people are not worried about the possible Russian invasion of Ukraine because they have other pressing issues, like rising gas prices and COVID-19. It shows how different countries prioritize their concerns.
  2. In Western Europe, there is a strong sense of disbelief about Putin's actions due to the trauma from past world wars. This reflects a hesitant attitude towards viewing Russia as a real threat.
  3. The idea that Russia is engaging in a 'slow-motion hybrid war' is becoming more accepted, but not everyone sees it as a significant danger yet. People seem to underplay the risks involved.

Russia after the war

Klement on Investing • 4 implied HN points • 14 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Russia still earns a lot from oil and can keep fighting, but oil revenues are sliding and inflation is well above target, putting serious strain on public finances and ordinary people.
  2. Defence spending takes up a huge share of the budget, so when the war ends the country will either face mass job losses as the military-industrial complex is shut down or be tempted to find new conflicts to keep it running.
  3. Private businesses took on lots of loans during the sanctions, so a post-war inflation spike and central-bank rate hikes could trigger widespread loan defaults and a financial crisis.

West's neoliberal 'age of abundance' is over, as war and sanctions boomerang home

Geopolitical Economy Report • 199 implied HN points • 29 Aug 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. France's President Macron highlighted the end of an era of abundance, signaling a significant shift or crisis.
  2. Western wars and sanctions are starting to have negative consequences domestically, indicating the decline of neoliberal capitalism.
  3. Neoliberalism is facing a collapse as its foundational elements like cheap resources, labor, and debt are no longer sustainable.

The Madness Goes On and On

John’s Substack • 8 implied HN points • 20 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. A public discussion focused on how the West is handling diplomacy with Russia and Ukraine.
  2. That Western diplomacy is described as surreal and disconnected from practical reality.
  3. This approach is predicted to cause prolonged, deadly serious trouble and instability for a long time to come.

The Greek Analyst exposing himself...

The Greek Analyst • 579 implied HN points • 22 Aug 21
💼 Business Geopolitics
  1. The Greek Analyst is transitioning from sharing short takes on Twitter to longer, in-depth content covering startups, economics, geopolitics, and more.
  2. Greece and Europe are showing resilience and growth in the tech industry, offering promising opportunities and a rich landscape for tech advancements.
  3. Europe and Greece are entering a golden age for tech, with a flourishing startup scene, significant investments, and a shift towards risk-taking, leading to a bright future in innovation.

Le Figaro Interview

John’s Substack • 7 implied HN points • 27 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. An interview was published in Le Figaro Magazine on 12 December 2025. It was presented as a featured piece in that issue.
  2. High-resolution images of the interview are embedded and can be clicked to enlarge for easier reading.
  3. The post includes links and visible engagement counts (e.g., 132, 54, 26), indicating shares and reader interaction.

Sanction China's Silence

Diane Francis • 459 implied HN points • 07 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. China's silence during conflicts can raise concerns for global relationships. It shows how complex alliances and enmities really are in politics.
  2. Russia is a key resource supplier to China, but supporting Russia could alienate China's other important partners, especially in the West.
  3. It's important to recognize that wanting a stable relationship with Russia might not benefit China's global standing or its dealings with Western countries.

Pakistan warns of foreign-backed regime-change attempt, to disrupt China/Russia alliance

Geopolitical Economy Report • 299 implied HN points • 04 Apr 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan is facing a foreign-backed regime-change attempt due to his opposition to US foreign policy and his effort to strengthen Pakistan's relations with China and Russia.
  2. Khan's vocal support for Palestinian liberation and his anti-colonial voice on the international stage have made him a target for hostile global elites.
  3. The regime-change efforts in Pakistan reflect a geopolitical power play involving Western interests seeking to assert control and discipline Pakistan amidst its growing alliances with China and Russia.

Ukraine abandoned, Gaza destroyed

Aaron Mate • 166 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The situation in Gaza is getting worse due to ongoing destruction from Israel.
  2. Ukraine is facing neglect, with calls for younger soldiers to take more risks in the conflict.
  3. There's a contrast between the struggles of Gaza and Ukraine, highlighting a lack of support for both regions.

As US floats revival of Istanbul talks, Zelensky and Starmer scramble

Aaron Mate • 100 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The US is considering restarting peace talks that were previously halted in Istanbul. This might open new discussions about resolving tensions.
  2. Zelensky and Starmer are actively trying to persuade Trump to support continued military action. They appear to be concerned about losing momentum in their efforts.
  3. The situation is dynamic as different leaders are scrambling to respond to changes in the political landscape. This could impact international relations significantly.