The hottest International relations Substack posts right now

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Top World Politics Topics

The Prigozhin Parable

Diane Francis • 1518 implied HN points • 24 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The Prigozhin affair shows that Russia is controlled by a group of wealthy oligarchs who care more about money than the well-being of their people. This makes it hard to negotiate or find solutions to the ongoing war.
  2. Putin's response to the Prigozhin situation reveals his weakness and the corruption within the military. Despite military losses, he continues to escalate the conflict instead of seeking peace.
  3. To effectively end the war, the West needs to take strong actions against Russian oligarchs and their assets. The future of Russia may involve breaking it into smaller states, similar to what happened with the Soviet Union.

Israel, Iran, and Russia

Diane Francis • 1298 implied HN points • 12 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The relationship between Russia and Iran is dangerous as they support each other's military activities and share resources. This partnership can worsen conflicts in the Middle East and pose threats globally.
  2. Russia has been using the situation in Israel to distract from its own actions in Ukraine. The narratives pushed by Russia aim to weaken Western support for Ukraine while exploiting the violence in Israel.
  3. To find peace, it's important for both Russia to be stopped in Ukraine and for Hamas and Hezbollah to be dealt with. A united effort from wealthy Arab nations, alongside the U.S. and Europe, is needed to negotiate a two-state solution for Palestinians.

Trump’s Foreign Policy Revolution. Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1460 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  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.

NATO's War on Ukraine

Glenn’s Substack • 199 implied HN points • 03 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. NATO's actions in Ukraine are portrayed as helping the country, but many Ukrainians do not support these actions.
  2. The war policies often lead to more destruction in Ukraine, rather than improvement.
  3. Political propaganda tends to simplify conflicts into good versus evil to gain public support for war.
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Is WWIII Already Underway? Is Hegseth Toast? Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2054 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. There are serious questions about Pete Hegseth's nomination for Secretary of Defense, as he faces multiple allegations and public scrutiny. Even his own mother had to defend him on TV, which isn't a good sign.
  2. Young Canadians are increasingly dissatisfied with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, feeling financial pressure that is leading them to consider more conservative options. This shift is significant, as this generation once strongly supported him.
  3. Many young Russians are escaping to Bali to avoid being drafted into the Ukraine war. They express feelings of being caught in a conflict they don’t support and want to find a safe place away from the violence.

Turchin vs. Zeihan on China

In My Tribe • 546 implied HN points • 30 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. China is currently seen as a major player in global affairs, with some believing it could become the next leading power. However, other experts warn that its growth might not meet expectations.
  2. There are differing opinions on China's stability: some focus on material vulnerabilities, while others believe its social cohesion makes it relatively stable compared to the West.
  3. Leadership and policy in China, particularly under Xi Jinping, may limit its potential for innovation and cultural development, affecting the country's overall progress.

Trump’s Trade War Is On. Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1604 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Trump is imposing high tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, which has sparked a strong response from these countries. Canada is retaliating with its own tariffs, indicating that this trade conflict could escalate quickly.
  2. RFK Jr. is gaining attention in politics, especially among a group called MAHA that aims to change the healthcare system. There are varying opinions about him, with some supporting his ideas and others critiquing them.
  3. A new conservative calendar featuring bikini models has been released, showing a trend among some on the right to embrace a more provocative image. However, its artistic quality is being questioned by critics.

Trump's AI Action Plan: Observations

ChinaTalk • 592 implied HN points • 23 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The AI Action Plan includes a lot of creative ideas, but it feels like it's from a different universe, making it somewhat confusing. It raises questions about whether it's truly effective or just idealistic.
  2. There's a strong concern about the U.S. losing its competitive edge in AI to China. The plan highlights the need for the government to support American tech firms so they can compete effectively with well-funded Chinese companies.
  3. The importance of addressing immigration policy and talent attraction for AI innovation is missing. Without new policies, it may be hard to grow talent within the U.S. tech industry.

Euros Fight Back!!!

Diane Francis • 899 implied HN points • 14 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The EU has started talks to let Ukraine join, showing strong support for Ukraine against Putin. This decision represents unity among European nations.
  2. Hungary's Prime Minister faced pressure from other leaders, including a tactful dinner invitation from Macron. This helped to avoid any vetoes on Ukraine's accession.
  3. The EU's support for Ukraine's fight means that Putin's strategy to divide and conquer has failed. Ukraine is now backed by a stronger coalition of nations.

Commentator

Castalia • 339 implied HN points • 18 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Israel and Iran are in a tense situation, but neither seems eager for a full-blown war. Both countries are more focused on saving face rather than escalating the conflict.
  2. The war in Ukraine is dragging on, with Ukrainian troops feeling exhausted and struggling for resources. The leaders need to rethink their strategies before it's too late.
  3. Trump's upcoming court trial could significantly impact the election season, as he will be tied up in the courtroom. It creates a unique situation that could shape the political landscape in America.

The Anglo-American Hand Behind The Rise Of Fascism Then And Now

Matt Ehret's Insights • 1277 implied HN points • 09 May 23
💾 History International relations
  1. The integration of leading Nazis into Anglo-American intelligence complex after WWII led to the rise of fascism then and now.
  2. Modern expressions of fascism seen in Ukraine and other post Soviet nations glorify Nazi collaborators.
  3. The financiers and industrialists of the 1920s -1940s were key in fueling fascism with their support and resources, showing that Hitler and Mussolini were not 'their own men'.

Weekend Update #159: Ukraine Is Much More Than Zelensky

Phillips’s Newsletter • 200 implied HN points • 16 Nov 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Ukraine's fight for freedom is more important than any single politician, including President Zelensky. The people are making huge sacrifices for their rights and lives against a brutal enemy.
  2. The Ukrainian military is changing its attack strategy to focus on key Russian supply targets, like oil ports and power plants, to limit Russian capabilities during the winter.
  3. In the ongoing battle for Pokrovsk, there is debate on whether Ukraine should withdraw. The outcome relies heavily on understanding the losses on both sides and the overall strategy of the war.

After Assad

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1984 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Bashar al-Assad has fled Syria, marking a significant change in the Middle East. This could reshape alliances and power dynamics in the region.
  2. There's excitement about the potential for change, with people celebrating in the streets. Yet, there are concerns that the future may bring harsh rule or further conflict instead of a peaceful democracy.
  3. Western countries are preparing for various outcomes in Syria, including military actions to counter any threats that arise after Assad's departure.

Weekend Update #158: The Long Dark Winter Has Come Early

Phillips’s Newsletter • 219 implied HN points • 09 Nov 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Ukrainian attacks on Russian power facilities are increasing, causing blackouts and showing vulnerabilities in the Russian power grid. This shift could change the dynamics of the conflict as both sides face harsh winter conditions.
  2. The battle for Pokrovsk is ongoing, with Ukraine holding most of the area but facing constant pressure from Russian forces. The significance of this location has shifted as analysts debate its strategic value amidst the costly confrontations.
  3. Recent sanctions on Russian oil trade are proving ineffective, as countries like India and China continue to purchase oil at similar rates. Political dealings, such as those involving Hungary, highlight the challenges in enforcing punitive measures against Russia.

How the U.S. Government Controls Ukrainian Media

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1465 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  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.

Makers and takers

Wyclif's Dust • 2146 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Wars aren't always won by the richest countries. Sometimes, less wealthy states focus more on military spending and fighting, giving them advantages in conflict.
  2. Countries that struggle economically may prioritize making weapons and preparing for war, using their limited resources to specialize in conflict instead of production.
  3. Trade and economics are deeply connected to politics. In a world with no clear authority, countries often use military power to protect or expand their economic interests.

How the Iran Strikes Seal Netanyahu’s Legacy

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 792 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Netanyahu views himself as the protector of Israel's security, which has defined his time in office. He believes that Iran poses the biggest threat to Israel, especially with its ambitions for nuclear weapons.
  2. The conflict between Netanyahu and Iranian leader Khamenei symbolizes a larger struggle in the Middle East, focusing on Israel's existence versus Iran's desire to eliminate it.
  3. Netanyahu's political survival has been linked to his tough stance against Iran, allowing him to remain in power despite various crises.

Chartbook 345 A "house of cards"? Russia's war economy in 2025.

Chartbook • 1659 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Russia's war economy appears strong on the surface but has significant underlying weaknesses, making it fragile. This could mean trouble for its long-term stability.
  2. High inflation and rising interest rates are putting pressure on the Russian economy, leading to financial instability. Many key sectors are struggling as costs soar.
  3. While sanctions affect Russia, the country still manages to generate substantial revenue from oil and gas exports. This suggests its financial situation may not be as dire as some predict.

Gaza and Hiroshima

Glenn Loury • 1031 implied HN points • 10 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. In war, understanding the strategy does not excuse us from grappling with the moral consequences.
  2. The necessities of war can lead to doing monstrous deeds that require a moral accounting.
  3. It's crucial to acknowledge the moral dilemmas and complexities of conflicts, even when actions deemed necessary have devastating consequences.

The Life and Death of the Oldest Hostage in Gaza

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1391 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  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.

Netanyahu's Plan to "Thin Out" the Palestinian Population of Gaza

Pen>Sword • 918 implied HN points • 05 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Netanyahu's plan involves forcibly displacing Palestinians from Gaza to make way for Israeli occupation and annexation.
  2. The plan includes pushing Palestinians towards the Egyptian border and even towards the Mediterranean Sea, leading to a dire situation for them.
  3. Despite global outrage and opposition, Netanyahu is persisting with his plan to eliminate the Palestinian population of Gaza, causing significant harm and suffering.

Xi Rumors

ChinaTalk • 607 implied HN points • 14 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. There are ongoing rumors about Xi Jinping being replaced, similar to past rumors about other leaders. These stories often arise without solid evidence and can be misleading.
  2. Recent regulations from the politburo focus on improving decision-making within the party, rather than indicating Xi's decline in power. It’s more about refining how power is used, not a sign of losing it.
  3. Many narratives around leadership change often stem from speculation and media hype, making it important to seek reliable sources and verify claims before believing them.

Top Links 816 How the "Big Beautiful Bill" will cost lives. Dysprosium from the warlords of Myanmar. Factories in space. Popular archaeology and China's Great Wall.

Chartbook • 529 implied HN points • 01 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The highest income earners in America have been spending more than the rising cost of living since 2019. This means they are better off than most people when it comes to their purchasing power.
  2. Dysprosium, a rare earth element, is connected to conflicts and power struggles in Myanmar, showing how resources can often come with a dark side.
  3. The idea of factories in space is becoming a possibility, hinting at new frontiers for manufacturing and technology beyond Earth.

Trudeau’s Not the Only One to Blame

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1711 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Trudeau became Prime Minister in 2015, bringing hope for a new progressive era in Canada. Many Canadians had high expectations for his leadership from the start.
  2. Despite his popularity, there were concerns that his charisma overshadowed his political substance. Some people were skeptical about his ability to handle the country's economy effectively.
  3. Criticism of Trudeau was not common early on, as most people favored his youthful image and promises. However, skepticism about his policies and the potential shift toward socialism started to arise.

Either Watch The Footage Of Dead Kids In Gaza Or Stop Supporting Israel

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1951 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. People who support Israel need to understand the reality of the situation in Gaza. Watching footage of the suffering there is important to form an honest opinion.
  2. If someone hasn't seen the evidence of violence, their thoughts on the issue might be based on denial or avoidance. It's hard to genuinely engage with a topic without understanding the facts.
  3. It's not okay to express opinions on Gaza while ignoring the harsh truths. To have a meaningful conversation, people must confront the real consequences of their beliefs.

Top Links 829 Underbuilt housing. How China is beating out the USA. Putin & anti-mimesis & pastoralist homes.

Chartbook • 472 implied HN points • 14 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. There is a problem with underbuilt housing in many areas. This means not enough homes are available for people to live in.
  2. China is making significant advancements and outpacing the USA in certain areas. This highlights shifts in global power dynamics.
  3. The discussion touches on Putin and themes like anti-mimesis, which probably involves deep philosophical ideas about representation and culture. It shows how complex issues can connect with art and architecture.

The Family That Never Came Home. Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1405 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  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 Lévy 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.

U.S. helped Pakistan cancel elections with a controversial IMF bailout--funded by a secret Ukraine weapons program

Bad News • 1218 implied HN points • 18 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The U.S. helped Pakistan cancel elections by providing an IMF bailout funded by a secret Ukraine weapons program.
  2. The IMF bailout demanded harsh structural policy reforms in Pakistan, leading to protests against soaring gas and electricity prices.
  3. The arms sales from Pakistan to the U.S. for Ukraine played a critical role in securing the IMF loan that allowed Pakistan to delay elections and deepen a crackdown on dissenters.

The Price of Flour Shows the Hunger Crisis in Gaza

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 575 implied HN points • 24 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Gaza is facing a serious hunger crisis due to rising food prices, especially flour, which is a crucial basic need for people. Immediate action is necessary to prevent mass starvation.
  2. Research shows that the current situation in Gaza is much worse than what has been claimed in the past, indicating real concerns for residents' survival.
  3. The findings from experts like Yannay Spitzer highlight the urgent need for attention and change in the humanitarian efforts in Gaza.

One More Dead Palestinian Kid

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1550 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. A two-year-old girl was tragically killed by Israeli forces in the West Bank, highlighting the ongoing violence in the region. It's heartbreaking to see such young lives lost.
  2. The author expresses deep emotional pain and despair regarding the loss of innocent lives, especially children, in conflict situations. These deaths leave a lasting impact on families and communities.
  3. The repetition of such tragedies can feel overwhelming, as if each death adds to an endless cycle of suffering. This ongoing situation calls for more awareness and compassion for those affected.

Winter is Coming

Diane Francis • 959 implied HN points • 23 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Ukrainian President Zelensky warned that Russian forces are planning to attempt a coup in Ukraine by the end of 2023. He has already survived multiple assassination attempts.
  2. Zelensky stressed the importance of Ukraine's fight for freedom, stating that a Russian victory would threaten NATO countries like the Baltics and Poland.
  3. He urged global powers like China and the U.S. to pressure Russia to stop its aggression, highlighting the need for unity among Ukrainians and their allies.

Did Iran Just Sneak Out Critical Nuclear Material from Fordow?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 709 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Iran moved 16 cargo trucks to its Fordow nuclear site just before a US attack, sparking concerns about their contents.
  2. Experts worry that Iran may have secretly relocated critical nuclear materials before the bombing.
  3. The US's military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities were claimed to be a success, but the situation is more complex than it seems.

The Deep Roots of Irish Antisemitism

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1813 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Ireland's criticism of Israel has grown significantly, becoming more intense than other countries, including some in the Arab world.
  2. The Israeli government decided to close its embassy in Ireland, citing the country’s extreme stance against Israel.
  3. The roots of Irish antisemitism are highlighted through personal family history and the historical context of Ireland's relationship with the Jewish community.

Just How Revisionist is China?

Drezner’s World • 609 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The global economic order is unraveling based on data from sources like Uppsala Conflict Data Program and Global Peace Index.
  2. China, Russia, and Iran are involved in global conflicts, but China seems to have more complex preferences and constraints on its revisionism.
  3. China is publicly rejecting U.S. pressure while privately pressuring Iran, showing limits to their revisionism.

The Middle East Metastasizes

Diane Francis • 639 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The conflict in Gaza is spreading, involving more countries and possibly leading to a larger war in the Middle East.
  2. Iran and Russia are actively trying to provoke the U.S. and distract from their own challenges, aiming to weaken America's influence.
  3. This situation could lead to more violence and instability, with the potential for greater harm to civilians and a complicated global response.

Michael Oren: Trump Takes a Wrecking Ball to the Middle East Status Quo

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1451 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Trump believes the main issue in the Middle East isn't a Palestinian state, pushing against decades of U.S. policy. He argues that a different approach is needed.
  2. He proposed that the U.S. could take control of Gaza and develop it, suggesting Palestinians could relocate to another country. This idea has sparked both support and backlash.
  3. Trump aims for peace in the region without a Palestinian state, similar to prior agreements with other Arab nations. Critics warn this could lead to more conflict and displacement.