The hottest International relations Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics
Caitlin’s Newsletter β€’ 526 implied HN points β€’ 26 Feb 25
  1. Israel has clear long-term goals in the Middle East and they are taking military actions to achieve them. This includes strengthening their position in Syria and Lebanon while pushing for changes in Gaza and the West Bank.
  2. The narrative around military and political support often has misleading implications. Support for certain countries or actions can sometimes be used to justify violence against innocent people.
  3. There are skeptical views on public figures and their true motives, especially in politics and media. People should be cautious about trusting narratives that seem convenient for powerful interests.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss β€’ 1391 implied HN points β€’ 25 Feb 25
  1. Shlomo Mantzur was a caring father and grandfather who loved spending time with his family. He raised his children to be optimistic and focused on the present.
  2. He was kidnapped at the age of 85 during a violent attack in Israel, becoming the oldest known hostage in the conflict. Many people, including soldiers, expressed a determination to bring him home safely.
  3. Mantzur's early life in Iraq included some happy memories, but he often didn't talk much about his past. His daughters remember him as someone who enjoyed making art and sharing treats with them.
The Upheaval β€’ 1952 implied HN points β€’ 14 Jun 25
  1. A book titled 'Control: The Global Rise and Coming Fall of Managerial Tyranny' is coming soon. It will be an expanded version of previous work on managerialism.
  2. The Substack will be paused indefinitely while the author takes a senior policy role at the State Department. Subscription payments are frozen, but the content will remain accessible.
  3. The author feels it's important to take action in today's world rather than just discuss issues. They hope to return to writing in the future.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss β€’ 1460 implied HN points β€’ 25 Feb 25
  1. Trump's foreign policy has changed the way America interacts with the world. Now, the U.S. is taking a different approach, acting more like a country that wants to change international rules.
  2. Many Ukrainians feel let down by Trump after believing he could help them find peace. They've removed American flags from their gear because they no longer see the U.S. as a symbol of freedom.
  3. Apple is making a big investment in the U.S., which is linked to Trump's tariff policies. This shows how companies are adapting their strategies based on the current political climate.
Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge β€’ 13388 implied HN points β€’ 29 Oct 24
  1. The situation in Ukraine is escalating with new claims of North Korean troop involvement, but there are doubts about the validity of these reports. It seems like a way to either justify war actions or divert attention from failures.
  2. Russian forces are making significant territorial gains in the south, suggesting they are currently in a strong position. This pressures Ukraine to maintain its last strongholds and potentially call for more foreign assistance.
  3. The European and American media narratives seem increasingly disconnected from reality. There are worries that misinformation and exaggerated claims are leading to misunderstanding and escalation of the conflict.
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Noahpinion β€’ 39412 implied HN points β€’ 16 Feb 25
  1. Europe needs to take on more responsibility for its own security since the U.S. is focusing on threats in Asia instead of Europe. It's time for European countries to step up and lead.
  2. There are major concerns about Europe's internal values and democratic principles. Leaders are worried that Europe might be losing sight of its core values and need to address these issues.
  3. To face threats like Russia and improve its economy, Europe needs to boost military spending and strengthen its economy. Better cooperation between countries and attracting skilled immigrants could help.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss β€’ 885 implied HN points β€’ 24 Feb 25
  1. Trump's foreign policy is focused on protecting American interests first, breaking from past approaches. This means less commitment to global issues that don't directly benefit the U.S.
  2. The idea of a global order that America used to support has started to be seen as a problem by some leaders. There's a belief that following this order has led to issues like a border crisis and rising competition from China.
  3. Trump's administration has made bold moves, such as rethinking trade agreements and engaging directly with countries like Russia. This signals a big shift in how the U.S. interacts on the world stage.
Noahpinion β€’ 16117 implied HN points β€’ 19 Feb 25
  1. Countries like Japan, South Korea, and Poland need nuclear weapons for better security. With threats from powerful neighbors, having their own nukes could help protect them.
  2. The U.S. nuclear umbrella isn't as reliable anymore. Domestic politics and shifting priorities in America make it uncertain whether the U.S. would defend its allies against nuclear threats.
  3. Past cases show that having nuclear weapons can actually reduce the risk of conflict. Countries like India and Pakistan have avoided major wars partly because of their nuclear arsenals.
Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge β€’ 12389 implied HN points β€’ 27 Oct 24
  1. Zelensky suggested that both Ukraine and Russia should stop attacking each other's energy facilities to avoid a harsh winter. This shows that Ukraine's strikes on Russian infrastructure were more about self-defense than actually crippling Russia.
  2. Putin is preparing to offer different negotiation terms depending on the outcome of the US presidential elections. He is looking to use these negotiations to maintain control over the territories gained in Ukraine.
  3. Ukraine is facing significant troop shortages, which is leading to a decrease in military mobilization. There are discussions about lowering the draft age, highlighting the urgency for Ukraine to bolster its forces.
Chartbook β€’ 300 implied HN points β€’ 19 Feb 25
  1. Ukraine has a lot of valuable minerals underground that could have big economic impacts.
  2. There are complex relationships between crime and economics that are worth exploring.
  3. China is currently facing challenges in its scientific community, impacting its global standing.
TK News by Matt Taibbi β€’ 22151 implied HN points β€’ 16 Feb 25
  1. J.D. Vance's speech at the Munich Security Conference made a big impact and raised many questions. People are encouraged to check it out and think about its meaning.
  2. There's a clear suggestion that propaganda influences how information is shared and understood. It's becoming easier to see how narratives can be shaped by those in power.
  3. Responses to the speech show a strong desire to fact-check and provide context. This highlights the importance of critical thinking when consuming news.
TK News by Matt Taibbi β€’ 15007 implied HN points β€’ 17 Feb 25
  1. J.D. Vance gave a powerful speech in Europe defending free speech and democracy, warning that the U.S. may not support Europe if it continues to jail people for speech.
  2. CBS responded to Vance's address by airing a segment that appeared to compare defending free speech with dangerous historical events, which sparked a lot of discussion.
  3. The coverage from CBS seemed more like a political statement rather than a straightforward news report, raising questions about media bias.
Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge β€’ 11630 implied HN points β€’ 25 Oct 24
  1. The BRICS summit showed a strong sense of unity and cooperation among member countries, contrasting with the often more formal and structured atmosphere of Western summits like the UN.
  2. New partnerships were announced, with 13 countries gaining partner status, which could lead to future full membership in BRICS, signaling a shift in global power dynamics.
  3. The summit also emphasized acceptance and diplomacy, with countries like Iran and Venezuela receiving respect and legitimacy on the world stage, promoting a message of collaboration and open dialogue.
Noahpinion β€’ 74295 implied HN points β€’ 02 Feb 25
  1. Trump's new tariffs on Canada and Mexico could raise prices for American consumers. These tariffs might hurt people's wallets and lead to higher costs for everyday goods.
  2. The tariffs may disrupt American manufacturers' supply chains, making it harder for them to compete. This could lower the production efficiency of U.S. companies that rely on imports from these countries.
  3. There is uncertainty about the impact of these tariffs on trade relations. If Trump keeps them in place, it could harm relationships with allies and create economic instability.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss β€’ 3130 implied HN points β€’ 21 Feb 25
  1. There is a debate among conservatives about Trump's comments on Ukraine and its president, Zelensky. Some believe Trump's words were inappropriate, while others argue the historical situation is different.
  2. Niall Ferguson criticized Trump's approach by referencing George H.W. Bush's strong response to Iraq's invasion of Kuwait. Ferguson felt Trump should not have called Zelensky a dictator.
  3. J.D. Vance defended Trump by saying that the situations facing Trump and Bush were not the same. He suggested that entering a war against a nuclear power is more complicated than dealing with Iraq's weaker military.
eugyppius: a plague chronicle β€’ 349 implied HN points β€’ 04 Mar 25
  1. The U.S. suspended military aid to Ukraine, which led to unrest among European leaders. They worry about what this means for their support of Ukraine and their own security.
  2. European politicians are feeling anxious and uncertain about their role as the U.S. changes its stance. They have to rethink how they approach their defense and alliances.
  3. Ukraine is struggling in its conflict with Russia, and without U.S. support, the situation may worsen. Support from Europe may not be enough to change the outcome of the war.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss β€’ 834 implied HN points β€’ 23 Feb 25
  1. America's support for Ukraine is fading, as leaders are discussing withdrawing help and making unfair demands. This shift worries many who believe it sends a bad message to the world about U.S. commitments.
  2. The new U.S. administration has made sudden moves to negotiate peace in Ukraine without involving Ukrainian leaders, which seems like a betrayal. This has raised concerns about Ukraine's sovereignty and security.
  3. Some U.S. officials are suggesting that Ukraine may need to give up land and will not be allowed to join NATO, which plays into Russia's hands and goes against the interests of Ukraine.
Caitlin’s Newsletter β€’ 2030 implied HN points β€’ 22 Feb 25
  1. Israel is creating new stories about atrocities to justify continuing military actions in Gaza as ceasefire talks are approaching. This seems like a tactic to rally support for resuming violence.
  2. The claims being made by Israel lack evidence, and there is reason to believe that the children in question may have died as collateral damage from Israeli strikes rather than at the hands of Hamas.
  3. This narrative plays into a larger strategy to deflect attention from the ongoing violence in Gaza and justify actions by portraying Israel as a victim, while ignoring the suffering of many innocent people.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss β€’ 301 implied HN points β€’ 24 Feb 25
  1. Many Ukrainians once admired Trump and felt hopeful about American support. Now, they feel let down and have even removed American flags from their uniforms.
  2. Odesa's historic Bristol Hotel was badly damaged in a recent Russian missile strike, showing the impact of the war on civilian life and culture.
  3. This destruction reflects a larger war not just on Ukraine but on its identity and heritage as well.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss β€’ 1585 implied HN points β€’ 22 Feb 25
  1. The author believes the tech industry should use its power to create advanced weapons to maintain peace, similar to the historic Manhattan Project. This could involve collaboration between the government and tech companies.
  2. They highlight that America's military strength has helped maintain world peace for nearly a century, and losing that superiority could create dangers for the future.
  3. The article suggests there's a growing belief against using military deterrence, which could lead to instability, so it's urgent for the U.S. and its allies to act and reinforce their military capabilities.
TK News by Matt Taibbi β€’ 8918 implied HN points β€’ 14 Feb 25
  1. Germany's Foreign Minister criticized the comments made by J.D. Vance about democracy in Europe. He thinks it's not okay to compare Europe to authoritarian places.
  2. There's a feeling that the political climate is changing, raising questions about what is acceptable to say in big conversations about democracy.
  3. Some people are reacting humorously to this situation, talking about the past and how it seems like the world is getting interesting again.
Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge β€’ 8572 implied HN points β€’ 22 Oct 24
  1. Russia's military production is increasing rapidly, even surpassing the losses they faced in Ukraine. This means they are becoming stronger despite the conflict.
  2. Ukraine's air defense is not as effective as reported, with lower interception rates than the government claims. This highlights a gap between what is being communicated and the reality on the ground.
  3. Germany's military capabilities are struggling to keep up, and in some areas, they are declining. They would need up to 100 years to rebuild their military stockpiles to past levels, in stark contrast to Russia's quick production capabilities.
Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge β€’ 11510 implied HN points β€’ 19 Oct 24
  1. Zelensky has suggested that Ukraine's security depends on either NATO membership or nuclear capabilities. This has raised significant concerns and discussions among Western allies.
  2. A Ukrainian official claimed that Ukraine could quickly create nuclear weapons if necessary, although this was later denied by Zelensky's office amid backlash.
  3. The nuclear threats appear to be aimed more at pressuring Ukraine's allies than at Russia itself, highlighting Ukraine's desperation for support in the ongoing conflict.
Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge β€’ 12909 implied HN points β€’ 17 Oct 24
  1. Zelensky presented a 'Victory Plan' for Ukraine that hopes to invite NATO membership and ramp up military support. Many people found his ideas unrealistic and lacking substance.
  2. One key point of the plan suggests deploying a strong military deterrent to protect Ukraine from Russia. This has raised concerns about the possible involvement of NATO forces on the ground.
  3. Concerns are growing over the U.S.'s ability to support Ukraine indefinitely, with officials stating they can't provide unlimited resources. This hints at potential limits to Ukraine's military ambitions.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss β€’ 3389 implied HN points β€’ 17 Feb 25
  1. J.D. Vance is taking a bold approach by challenging foreign powers, notably at the Munich Security Conference. This kind of confrontation could signal a shift in U.S. foreign policy.
  2. America's previous attempts to provoke negotiations with other countries often went unanswered. Historically, many nations haven't reacted strongly, showing a lack of willingness to engage.
  3. The current administration seems to be looking for conflicts to assert its stance on the global stage. This strategy might change how the U.S. is perceived internationally.
Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge β€’ 12429 implied HN points β€’ 15 Oct 24
  1. Ukraine is facing increasing military pressure from Russia, and the situation for Ukraine seems to be worsening. There are discussions about possibly giving up some territory to reach a peace deal.
  2. Germany is cutting its financial support for Ukraine significantly, leading to concerns about the future of military assistance. This reduction could impact Ukraine's ability to sustain its defense.
  3. Zelensky is expected to address the Ukrainian parliament soon, where he may propose a new plan for victory, but there are hints that this plan might involve compromises regarding territory.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss β€’ 2179 implied HN points β€’ 19 Feb 25
  1. Kfir Bibas, a baby taken by Hamas, represents the core of the conflict and highlights its tragic consequences.
  2. Yarden Bibas was released after a long time in captivity, but his family has faced immense loss and grief.
  3. Hamas claims to be returning the bodies of Kfir and his family, marking a painful end to their ordeal.
Chartbook β€’ 400 implied HN points β€’ 17 Feb 25
  1. China has a huge impact on global manufacturing, producing about one-third of the world's goods. This shows how essential China is in many important production areas.
  2. The rouble is experiencing significant fluctuations, which could affect the economy and trade. These changes can create challenges for Russia and its partners.
  3. PM2.5 pollution is harmful to health and has led to serious political issues in some areas. Understanding its effects can help address public health and environmental concerns.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss β€’ 1405 implied HN points β€’ 20 Feb 25
  1. Hamas returned the bodies of four Israeli hostages who died in captivity, including young children. This tragic event highlights the deep emotional toll of ongoing conflicts.
  2. Bernard-Henri LΓ©vy argues that Europe needs its own military, as the reliance on the United States is becoming less viable. He believes it's time for Europe to take charge of its own security.
  3. There's a concern that the extreme positions on both the online left and right in politics can push normal voters away. Moderation and balance are needed to keep the political landscape stable.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss β€’ 2170 implied HN points β€’ 18 Feb 25
  1. Americans are creating a stir in Europe, with political figures speaking out against issues like free speech and defense. It's making many in Europe realize just how much U.S. politics is affecting them.
  2. There's a growing divide between the U.S. and Europe on important values like freedom and democracy. As leaders discuss policy changes, it seems both sides are moving apart.
  3. A prominent conversation is happening around the idea of 'brokenism,' where people are debating whether traditional institutions are failing or need to be reformed. It's highlighting a significant split in American political thought.
Glenn’s Substack β€’ 2318 implied HN points β€’ 02 Oct 24
  1. The US faces a serious economic crisis due to high debt levels and declining fiscal responsibility. The country has been unable to effectively address these financial issues since the 2008 crisis.
  2. Efforts to boost US competitiveness, like subsidies and sanctions, often backfire and may harm the economy more. In contrast, countries like China are gaining strength by diversifying their economies and forming new partnerships.
  3. As the US struggles, other countries are building a new economic system that doesn't rely on America. This shift might create a world where multiple powers coexist, rather than one dominant force.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss β€’ 1150 implied HN points β€’ 20 Feb 25
  1. People are sometimes dishonest about the past, especially in the context of wars. This can make it hard to understand the truth of what happened.
  2. Russia is being called the aggressor in the conflict, and it's important for leaders to acknowledge that fact. Ignoring this can affect peace efforts.
  3. Some leaders, like the former president, may spread misleading information about who started a conflict, which can confuse public opinion on important issues.
Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge β€’ 13029 implied HN points β€’ 11 Oct 24
  1. Ukraine's situation is worsening as they struggle against renewed Russian advances. Zelensky is seeking support from allies to end the conflict but is facing growing pressures.
  2. There are discussions about a potential ceasefire, but Zelensky is caught between showing strength and the reality of needing to make concessions. He wants to maintain the appearance of not giving up land.
  3. Infighting and low morale are rising among pro-Ukrainian supporters. Many feel that the West won't provide the necessary support to achieve victory against Russia.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss β€’ 1465 implied HN points β€’ 18 Feb 25
  1. A lot of the 'independent' media in Ukraine is funded by USAID, which means American taxpayer money is being used in ways that some might not expect.
  2. When a journalist exposed government abuse in Ukraine, other media outlets published negative stories about him instead of covering the attack he filmed, showing a lack of support for independent journalism.
  3. This situation highlights how independent media can be influenced by government interests, which can lead to misinformation and a suppression of truth.
Noahpinion β€’ 50647 implied HN points β€’ 02 Jan 25
  1. War is a real and serious threat in today's world, especially with rising tensions between powerful nations. People often don't understand the huge impact it can have on everyday lives.
  2. Taiwan is an interesting example of how a place can seem peaceful and happy even when there's a looming danger. The people go on with their lives, not fully feeling the weight of possible conflict.
  3. Humanity can see into the future, which is a curse because it brings anxiety. But this awareness can also help prepare for tough times ahead, making it important to take action rather than just waiting.
God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger β€’ 100 implied HN points β€’ 13 Jun 25
  1. Israel has launched an attack on Iran's nuclear facilities, reportedly killing key military leaders and scientists. This move raises tensions in the region significantly.
  2. Iran has responded by launching drones towards Israel, marking a potential escalation of conflict. The situation remains very dynamic as both sides prepare for further actions.
  3. The future depends heavily on Iran's next steps; it could either remain cautious or retaliate forcefully, which could lead to a wider war in the Middle East.
Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge β€’ 13848 implied HN points β€’ 06 Oct 24
  1. Ukrainian troops are facing major issues, like mutinies and lack of resources. Many soldiers are unwilling to fight due to insufficient training and equipment.
  2. The fall of Ugledar shows how serious the losses are for Ukraine. Brigades are being dramatically reduced in numbers, with some units losing nearly all their members.
  3. There's a growing sentiment among Ukrainian soldiers and officials that negotiations might be necessary to end the conflict. Many are feeling the emotional and physical toll of the ongoing war.
Chartbook β€’ 386 implied HN points β€’ 16 Feb 25
  1. China may be able to withstand challenges posed by the U.S., but the implications are worth exploring.
  2. There is a noticeable trend of more countries enhancing their welfare systems around the world.
  3. The situation in Sudan is deteriorating, highlighting the importance of public awareness and activism.
Noahpinion β€’ 24588 implied HN points β€’ 18 Jan 25
  1. The Middle East is moving away from constant warfare, with many regions experiencing peace. This shift could lead to economic recovery as people focus on constructive opportunities.
  2. Technology and geography are becoming more favorable for the Middle East. Innovations like cheap solar power and desalination can help support growth in a region with traditionally limited resources.
  3. The region's demographics are shifting positively, providing a 'demographic dividend.' With a more balanced age structure, there is great potential for economic development and workforce growth in the coming years.
Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge β€’ 11030 implied HN points β€’ 08 Oct 24
  1. Ukraine may consider giving up some land to stop the fighting, as they can't easily challenge Russia's control. Western allies are worried about the ongoing conflict and its costs.
  2. Russia wants a permanent solution to the conflict, not just a temporary ceasefire. They have specific demands, like Ukraine remaining neutral and giving up certain territories.
  3. There are doubts about whether the U.S. or NATO would back Ukraine joining their alliance, as this could lead to more tensions. Trusting outside nations to guarantee Ukraine's neutrality is also a big issue.