The hottest Geopolitics Substack posts right now

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Top World Politics Topics

A Requiem For Ba'athism (Part 1 of 2)

Fisted by Foucault • 128 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The Syrian government quickly collapsed, with major cities falling to opposition forces in a matter of weeks. This rapid change marked the end of Ba'athism and the Assad family's rule.
  2. The regime's failure was due to a mix of internal issues like demoralization among troops and lack of support from allies like Iran and Hezbollah. It wasn't a heroic battle but rather a series of local surrenders.
  3. The collapse of the Assad regime shows how much the political landscape in the Arab world has changed. It's also seen as a broader consequence of historical grievances and foreign interventions in the Middle East.

The Vatnik Tell

Phillips’s Newsletter • 128 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The term 'non-aligned' is a key point in discussions about Ukraine's future and its relationships with NATO and Russia.
  2. For Ukraine to maintain this 'non-aligned' status, it can't join NATO or host foreign troops for security.
  3. The statements from different speakers show a consistent view that Ukraine must stay clear of foreign military influence to avoid escalating tensions.

Ukraine 1, Goliath 0

Diane Francis • 419 implied HN points • 28 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. A Russian soldier surrendered a tank to the Ukrainian forces and got a reward of $10,000. He did this because he was scared of what would happen if he returned to his unit.
  2. The soldier described the Russian military command as chaotic and confused, showing serious problems within their ranks.
  3. This incident highlights how some soldiers may feel more secure with the opposing force than with their own leaders during the conflict.

Putin's Endgame

Diane Francis • 439 implied HN points • 03 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Putin thought his invasion of Ukraine would be quick, expecting to capture Kyiv in just two days.
  2. Ukrainians are fighting back fiercely, motivated by the belief that they face a threat to their existence.
  3. Putin's actions and remarks have fueled strong resistance from the Ukrainian people, showing the unexpected outcome of his plans.
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EU calls China and Russia ‘threats’ in ‘war for the future of the entire world’

Geopolitical Economy Report • 159 implied HN points • 14 Oct 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. European Union leader Ursula von der Leyen sees China and Russia as global threats to Western hegemony, and is working to weaken their influence and expand EU power.
  2. The EU is implementing a Global Gateway investment program to challenge China's Belt and Road Initiative and secure natural resources for renewable energy technologies.
  3. Von der Leyen highlights the strengthening of the transatlantic bond through increased US energy imports, emphasizing the reduction of European reliance on Russian fossil fuels.

Saturday Commentary and Review #154

Fisted by Foucault • 323 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Poland experienced challenges with judicial reform and resistance to western liberal mandates.
  2. There is a shift towards illiberal methods in the name of defending democracy, exemplified by actions in Poland and Germany.
  3. Efforts to de-dollarize economies like China's seek to strengthen financial security and reduce vulnerabilities in the global economic system.

Proxy wars in Syria, Lebanon, Ukraine overlap and explode

Aaron Mate • 136 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Proxy wars in places like Syria, Lebanon, and Ukraine are connected and worsen each other. This means that fighting in one area can spill over into another and create more chaos.
  2. As a result of these conflicts, groups like Al Qaeda can take advantage and gain control of more areas, leading to new crises. This shows how interconnected these wars can be.
  3. The actions of major powers, like the CIA and Israel, are often behind these conflicts, showing how international interests can shape local battles and instability.

Why Technologies Become Geopolitical

The Digital Anthropologist • 19 implied HN points • 03 May 24
🕹 Technology Geopolitics
  1. Technologies become geopolitical when they offer economic or military advantages over other nations.
  2. Stories and values play a significant role in shaping how technologies become geopolitical.
  3. Digital technologies like AI and communication tools are shaping the geopolitical landscape due to their influence on information warfare and storytelling.

Russia demanding Europe pay for gas in rubles could have huge repercussions

Geopolitical Economy Report • 279 implied HN points • 26 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Russia's demand for Europe to pay for gas in rubles could impact the global economy and challenge Western sanctions.
  2. Europe heavily relies on Russian gas for heating, electricity, and manufacturing, and severing ties could lead to severe consequences like fuel rationing.
  3. The European Union faces dilemmas on how to obtain rubles for gas payments, highlighting the complex interplay of geopolitics, currency dynamics, and global trade relationships.

Gulf and Golf Wars

Diane Francis • 339 implied HN points • 13 Jun 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Geopolitics
  1. Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, is influencing global politics and sports, using his power and money to gain respect and support from the U.S.
  2. President Biden is in a tough position, needing Saudi Arabia's help to lower gas prices and secure oil, especially as tensions rise with Russia and China.
  3. Phil Mickelson's involvement in a Saudi-backed golf tour highlights how sports can be used to improve a country's image, despite serious human rights issues.

NATO: Grow a Backbone

Diane Francis • 399 implied HN points • 24 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Putin's actions in Ukraine are seen as aggressive and unjustified. Many believe the world is not doing enough to stop him.
  2. NATO's principle that an attack on one member is an attack on all is not being upheld. There's concern that this could weaken the alliance.
  3. The situation in Ukraine shows that NATO members need to stand together and respond more effectively to aggression. It's important for their security and unity.

Kazakhstan Captured?

Diane Francis • 459 implied HN points • 07 Jan 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Kazakhstan is a large country in Central Asia with rich natural resources. This makes it an important location for global politics.
  2. Recently, Russia sent troops to Kazakhstan, increasing tensions in the region. This move has raised concerns about Kazakhstan's independence.
  3. The situation in Kazakhstan could affect many other countries, as it's a key player in energy supplies and regional stability.

GLOBAL EYES

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 9 implied HN points • 29 Nov 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Steve Witkoff built his career around decades of Russian money and opaque real-estate deals that were tied to post-Soviet capital and criminal pipelines.
  2. Now acting as a special envoy, he is promoting a "peace plan" that closely mirrors Kremlin demands and appears aimed at reviving business ties and enriching those involved.
  3. Having U.S. policy shaped by people whose careers were forged inside the industry Russia used to project influence raises serious conflicts-of-interest and foreign-influence concerns.

Introduction: 'To Govern The Globe'

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 105 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. World orders are more stable than empires. They are shaped by economics, culture, and global interactions, and they can last much longer than the empires that create them.
  2. The West has a history of expansion and exploitation. This history affects how current global dynamics play out, especially between nations.
  3. Understanding these world orders helps us see where we are headed next. We need to look at past strategies and how they impact today's politics and society.

Low-carbon energy does not have the same energy security risks as fossil fuels

Sustainability by numbers • 284 implied HN points • 07 Mar 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Geopolitics
  1. Low-carbon energy is more secure compared to fossil fuels due to different risk factors.
  2. Fossil fuel supplies pose an energy security risk due to being fuels that can be cut off or become expensive, impacting a country's energy security.
  3. Mineral inequities for clean energy transition are a separate issue, as expensive minerals may slow down the transition but do not impact the operation of existing technologies.

Pakistan coup regime bans Imran Khan, dissidents killed, as US eyes China ties, Israel normalization

Geopolitical Economy Report • 139 implied HN points • 26 Oct 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Pakistan's military-dominated regime, with US backing, banned former PM Imran Khan from office causing protests.
  2. The US is pressuring Pakistan to weaken ties with China, arm Ukraine, and recognize Israel, following the coup.
  3. The unelected coup regime in Pakistan is seeking a strategic partnership with the US, potentially softening relations with China.

You're Invited

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 3 implied HN points • 18 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Adnan Hadad, a former Syrian revolutionary who co-founded the Aleppo Media Center and helped film The White Helmets, will speak about the Syrian revolution, the civil war, and Syria’s future.
  2. Aleppo was the epicenter of the Syrian conflict, marked by terrible atrocities and destruction but also by grassroots resilience — community radios, underground schools, emergency responders, and citizen journalists kept life and resistance alive.
  3. The region remains highly unstable: U.S. leaders backed away from strikes on Iran amid allied concerns, disputes over Gaza oversight and foreign influence are growing, and in Syria Kurdish forces have withdrawn from some towns as government troops advance while debates over Kurdish rights, alleged plots by former regime loyalists, and evidence of mass prison killings all complicate any path forward.

De-Mechanizing and De-Populating the Front Line

Phillips’s Newsletter • 94 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. UAV technology is making the front lines very dangerous for both soldiers and vehicles. It's important to adapt quickly to these changing battlefield conditions.
  2. The Russian military is moving away from mechanical vehicles and is now using donkeys and horses for logistics. This shift shows a significant change in their supply strategies.
  3. Using too many soldiers at the front lines might be risky for Ukraine, given the advanced threats posed by UAVs. Smart planning is essential for safety and effectiveness.

Taiwan is "Strategic" and its Fate will Determine the Future of the Asia-Pacific Region

Phillips’s Newsletter • 98 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Taiwan is incredibly important for the Asia-Pacific region. Its location and resources make it crucial for maintaining stability and power in the area.
  2. The future of Taiwan affects not just China but also its neighbors like Japan and South Korea. If Taiwan is threatened, it can impact these countries' ability to remain independent.
  3. Political decisions regarding Taiwan can have serious consequences. For instance, changes in the U.S. stance on Taiwan could lead to major strategic setbacks for the U.S. in the region.

Vlad the Bad

Diane Francis • 679 implied HN points • 22 Mar 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Geopolitics
  1. Vladimir Putin is seen as incredibly powerful and wealthy, controlling vast resources in Russia while keeping the country impoverished. Most Russians live on very little despite the country's riches.
  2. Putin's regime is characterized by harsh control, eliminating political opponents and using propaganda. His foreign policy aims to weaken Western institutions and expand Russian influence.
  3. The relationship between the U.S. and Putin is tense, especially after recent comments from President Biden calling Putin a 'killer.' There are expectations for serious consequences, but Putin is unlikely to back down easily.

How Ukraine, a country without a navy, destroyed 25+ Russian warships

Back To Sifar • 19 HN points • 21 Apr 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Despite lacking a navy, Ukraine employed innovative tactics and modern technology to destroy over 25 Russian warships.
  2. Cost-effective weapons like anti-tank guided missiles, tactical ballistic missiles, and anti-ship/cruise missiles were crucial in Ukraine's naval victories.
  3. The use of drones also played a significant role in Ukraine's successful attacks on the Russian Black Sea fleet, changing the dynamics of modern warfare.

Mariupol Massacre

Diane Francis • 359 implied HN points • 21 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Mariupol, a Ukrainian port city, is facing severe conditions due to ongoing Russian attacks. Residents are struggling without basic necessities like food, water, and electricity.
  2. The city has been under siege for weeks, impacting around 431,000 people who come from diverse backgrounds.
  3. The situation is described as 'apocalyptic,' highlighting the extreme suffering and urgent humanitarian crisis occurring there.

You Can't Get There From Here.

Trying to Understand the World • 9 implied HN points • 26 Nov 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The word “war” with Russia is vague and dangerous: without clear, concrete assumptions about what a conflict would actually look like, any military planning is almost meaningless.
  2. Geography, distances and logistics make large-scale conventional campaigning across Europe impractical today, so conflicts would be decided largely by missiles, drones and how well states can police air and sea frontiers.
  3. What’s needed is a realistic NATO political-military doctrine and practical plans for limited scenarios (frontier policing, Baltic/Finland, Black Sea), not symbolic troop gestures that could be destroyed or escalate the situation.

The Bear Arrives

Diane Francis • 319 implied HN points • 12 May 22
💰 Finance Geopolitics
  1. A bear market happens when stock prices drop by at least 20% over a year. This can make investing riskier during that time.
  2. Current global issues, like Russia's invasion of Ukraine, have disrupted markets and increased prices for essentials.
  3. China's strict COVID-19 lockdowns have hurt its economy, impacting supply chains and global trade.

Less is More: 2023 Annual Letter

Interconnected • 293 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
💰 Finance Geopolitics
  1. The author runs a long/short equity portfolio focused on investing in technology companies.
  2. The author has experience in leadership positions at GitHub, a unicorn database startup, and the White House.
  3. The annual letter provides performance updates and comparisons with relevant benchmarks.

Making Sense of The Après-Ukraine.

Trying to Understand the World • 7 implied HN points • 11 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. You can’t easily draw universal lessons from Ukraine because the war’s context is unique, political, and many lessons won’t be practical or agreed on.
  2. Logistics, ammunition and sheer numbers often matter more than individual platforms: large stocks, resupply and integrated command let forces fight for years, and massed missiles or drones can overwhelm defenses.
  3. Drones and new technologies are important but conditional — defenses will adapt, the West will adopt them slowly and unevenly, and these tools will create unexpected civilian, criminal, and military uses.

The Nuclear Spectre

Diane Francis • 359 implied HN points • 09 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. A Russian whistleblower claims that the war in Ukraine is struggling and many Russian soldiers have been killed. This shows the seriousness of the conflict and the toll it is taking.
  2. The whistleblower warns that Putin might use nuclear threats to control the situation. This raises fears about the safety and future of the region.
  3. One post suggests the possibility of a small nuclear strike in Ukraine, but not for military reasons. This highlights the unpredictable and dangerous nature of the current conflict.

Diplomacy That Is Going Nowhere

John’s Substack • 7 implied HN points • 14 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. Diplomatic efforts are unlikely to produce a peace deal right now because the main parties’ demands are deeply opposed and neither side is willing to compromise.
  2. A high-profile US 27-point peace proposal is being promoted, but Russia has not accepted it and has publicly rejected the plan as unacceptable.
  3. Real diplomacy will likely only become possible after a major battlefield development forces both sides toward an armistice, probably turning the hot war into a frozen conflict.

On Trade with Central Asia - Nikolai Petrovsky, 1872

The Library of Alexandria Ultima • 6 implied HN points • 23 Dec 25
💾 History Geopolitics
  1. Russia’s move into Central Asia was driven by two goals: political advantage against rival powers and opening new markets, so holding the region’s power center was seen as essential.
  2. Bukhara sits at a strategic crossroads between Afghanistan, Persia, Russia and other routes, making it a major exchange hub that any power can access, so control there determines regional influence.
  3. Russian goods flood the Bukharan market via local middlemen and are often sold so cheaply they undercut native cotton and hurt long-term trade interests, creating pressure to assert direct control—potentially by force—to secure those markets.

What Europe is Missing.

Phillips’s Newsletter • 115 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. European countries are starting to talk about their own military actions, especially regarding Ukraine. This shows a shift in how they view their defense responsibilities.
  2. There's a question about whether Europe can really defend itself without support from the USA. Many believe that it's not just about ability, but also mindset.
  3. The main issue isn't capability; it's whether European nations can picture themselves being independent in defense matters. It's more about perception than actual strength.

The Ukraine Blowback Begins

JoeWrote • 76 implied HN points • 04 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Geopolitics
  1. America's military support for Ukraine is getting complicated and could lead to unexpected problems in the future. There are concerns that weapons could land in the wrong hands and create new conflicts.
  2. Some extremist groups in Ukraine, like the Azov Battalion, have gained power and access to U.S. military equipment. This raises worries about how they might use these weapons in the future, especially if they turn against the Ukrainian government.
  3. The situation is becoming unstable as political support from the U.S. shifts. If military aid stops, it could lead to infighting and chaos within Ukraine, making things even worse for the country.

My Talk at the European Parliament

John’s Substack • 10 implied HN points • 19 Nov 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics
  1. The speaker discussed the challenges Europe is facing in the future. They believe the situation looks quite worrying.
  2. The talk was held at the European Parliament, suggesting its importance in addressing European issues.
  3. A transcript and video of the presentation are available for those interested in more details.