The hottest International relations Substack posts right now

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Top World Politics Topics

Let’s talk politics

Splattern • 79 implied HN points • 21 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Tanzanians often feel disconnected from their politics, seeing their president as somewhat irrelevant, while they look to foreign influences for real change.
  2. People in developing countries, like Tanzania, see the U.S. president as more impactful in their lives than their own leaders, which shows the global influence America holds.
  3. Voter participation is crucial in the U.S. elections, as every vote counts towards the future and can help push for voting reform, making each citizen's voice significant.

A quick review Xi Jinping's speech on the development of China's financial sector

Ginger River Review • 668 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Decision-makers in China realized the importance of not blindly following the West's financial development mode after the 2008 financial crisis.
  2. China is striving to build a strong financial sector based on a combination of economic power, key financial elements, and a focus on preventing financial risks.
  3. Chinese leaders are emphasizing a combination of rule of law and virtue, fostering a unique financial culture, and prioritizing integrity, prudence, innovation, legal compliance, and openness with financial security.

The Ukrainian People Deserve Better

Phillips’s Newsletter • 188 implied HN points • 14 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Corruption is a serious issue in Ukraine, with high-profile scandals shaking the country. A close associate of President Zelensky was involved in a money laundering scheme, which highlights the ongoing problem.
  2. This corruption could have dire consequences for Ukrainians, especially as they face challenges with their energy systems during the war. The funds meant to help keep the lights on were allegedly misused.
  3. President Zelensky must take strong actions to address corruption to meet the expectations of the Ukrainian people and the European Union. There is pressure for Ukraine to improve and be better than other countries facing similar issues.

Israel's Ayatollahs

Diane Francis • 999 implied HN points • 09 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. A high-ranking Israeli minister suggested using a nuclear bomb against Gaza, which shocked many. This led to calls for the Prime Minister to take stronger action against such extremist views.
  2. There is a growing concern within Israel that the current government, heavily influenced by religious extremists, is eroding democratic values and the rule of law.
  3. Many Israelis, including minorities, are feeling trapped and divided due to the current political situation. While they may stay united during the war, the future after the conflict is uncertain and could lead to further chaos.
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American Shadow Creatures Exposed: But Will the Empire Still Win the Day?

Matt Ehret's Insights • 1159 implied HN points • 26 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Throughout history, there have been instances where shadowy actions have been exposed but often don't lead to significant consequences.
  2. American leaders like Lincoln, FDR, and JFK fought against imperial impulses and tried to shine a light on these shadowy forces.
  3. Recent events like the Durham Report have shed light on the fabrication of Russiagate, showing the importance of alliances with countries like Russia and China to counter the global empire.

Putin Wants to Destroy Ukraine. Can Trump Stop Him?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 463 implied HN points • 13 Aug 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Putin doesn't see Ukraine as a real country, which complicates any peace talks. He wants to control Ukraine to make Russia stronger.
  2. Past U.S. presidents often misjudge Putin's intentions, which leads to bad decisions in dealing with Russia.
  3. Any meeting between the U.S. and Russia about Ukraine needs to include Ukraine itself, or it won't be fair or effective.

🗽 America at (almost) 250: It still works!

Faster, Please! • 639 implied HN points • 04 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The U.S. economy is doing well and outpacing its European competitors. It has become much larger than Europe's economy in recent years.
  2. China is considered a rival, but its growth is slowing down and won't lead to lasting dominance. America’s free-market system is still strong and appealing to global talent.
  3. Despite facing problems like rising debt and political issues, America's core strengths remain competitive. The country is likely entering a new and positive phase as it approaches its 250th birthday.

Canada's Mediocracy

Diane Francis • 1618 implied HN points • 05 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Canada is giving little military support to Ukraine, especially compared to what other countries like the US are doing. The government has also not met its NATO defense spending commitments.
  2. Trudeau's government lacks expertise, hiring outside consultants for guidance and has made several decisions that hurt Canada's energy sector and military capabilities. This raises concerns about national security.
  3. There are serious issues of foreign influence on Canadian politics, especially from China, which have not been adequately addressed by Trudeau and his administration.

Russia's Sopranos

Diane Francis • 1478 implied HN points • 26 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Russia is not just a country; it's an empire with lots of powerful groups fighting for control. This makes it feel more like a mafia organization than a united nation.
  2. Yevgeny Prigozhin, a former friend of Putin, has become a powerful figure by criticizing the military and gaining public support. He raised concerns about how the war is being fought and how soldiers are treated.
  3. Putin's recent challenges show he's losing control. His inability to handle internal conflicts weakens his leadership and could lead to bigger changes in Russia's future.

Why Ukraine Must Win

Diane Francis • 759 implied HN points • 21 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Ukraine needs more military aid from the US and Europe to defend itself against Russia. Without this support, Russia could gain even more territory.
  2. If Ukraine gets the right amount of funding and military equipment this year, it could turn the situation around and push back Russian advances.
  3. If Ukraine loses, it would not only be a big shift in power but could also mean more US troops in Eastern Europe to handle the aftermath.

This Week in Canada: Don’t Take an Israeli Flag to a Pride Parade

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 486 implied HN points • 05 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Canada didn't manage to strike a trade deal with the U.S. by the deadline, resulting in a rise in tariffs. This affects less than 10% of Canada's trade, so it's not as big of a deal as it sounds.
  2. Despite the tariff increase, some Canadian leaders are still pushing for a stronger deal with the U.S. They want to ensure Canada gets a fair trade arrangement.
  3. There's ongoing tension around inclusivity at events like Pride, with some groups feeling excluded over different political views, which raises debates on what it means to be inclusive.

Contours of a US-China Tech Grand Bargain

Interconnected • 709 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The US and China are working on a tech agreement that could change the way they trade technology and materials. This could lead to better cooperation on key tech issues like semiconductors and rare earth materials.
  2. China has advantages in supplying critical materials, while the US holds the edge in semiconductor technologies. Both sides will have to negotiate carefully to balance their needs and strengths.
  3. Access to the consumer tech market is crucial for both countries. A deal involving TikTok might help set guidelines for how Chinese companies can operate in the US, which could shape future technology negotiations between the two nations.

China Waiting

Diane Francis • 179 implied HN points • 30 May 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. China is closely watching the outcome of the war in Russia. They may have plans to reclaim territories they lost in the past.
  2. If Russia faces significant changes in leadership, it could lead to instability across its vast territory.
  3. The historical claim over areas like Manchuria could become a priority for China if Russia weakens.

USA & NATO responsible for Ukraine war, German & French public say in poll

Geopolitical Economy Report • 1096 implied HN points • 10 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Most people in Germany and France blame the United States or NATO for the war in Ukraine, according to a survey by anti-Putin activists.
  2. The public opinion may not significantly affect government policies, as seen by Germany's Foreign Minister's statement about supporting Ukraine despite public opinion.
  3. Results from the polls show that many Europeans perceive the conflict in Ukraine not just as Kiev versus Moscow but as a larger proxy war involving NATO and the US against Russia.

Top Links 801 Is a decade of American exceptionalism coming to an end? The stages of China's real estate grief. Saving Rococo from Trump & the "Age of Hard Trying.

Chartbook • 529 implied HN points • 16 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. American exceptionalism might be ending, with shifts in economic power becoming apparent. This means that the U.S. may not be the dominant force it used to be.
  2. China's real estate market is going through tough times, which impacts its economy and global standing. The struggles they face could have wider effects on the world economy.
  3. There are cultural challenges, like the presidency of Trump, that affect creativity and artistic expression in society. People are trying to find ways to preserve and celebrate their culture amidst these challenges.

The NIMBYs have learned to use AI 😩 (Odds and Ends #68)

Odds and Ends of History • 737 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. NIMBYs are now using AI to oppose new projects, which could make building more difficult. This shift shows how technology is changing public opposition.
  2. There's a sense that abundance is the key to solving high living costs, suggesting we need more resources and options available for people.
  3. The conflict in Ukraine has transformed warfare, particularly with the use of drones, leading to new tactics and challenges in modern combat.

Ukrainian General Syrskyi Describes Aims and Goals of Kursk Operation in First-Ever CNN Interview

Glen’s Substack • 39 implied HN points • 06 Sep 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Ukrainian General Syrskyi explained that the Kursk operation aims to stop Russian forces from launching new attacks and to boost Ukrainian morale.
  2. He noted that Ukrainian troops have successfully halted Russian advances in the Pokrovsk direction, showing that their strategy is working.
  3. Syrskyi emphasized the need for Ukraine to be smarter in warfare due to Russia's material advantages, focusing on effective tactics and high-tech weaponry.

Wagner, Two Years On

ChinaTalk • 578 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The Wagner Group's uprising in 2023 was a major event that changed how the Russian government views internal threats. It showed they are more worried about armed groups than regular protests now.
  2. Wagner succeeded in bypassing the usual security controls in the Russian military, which mainly kept coups at bay. This highlighted weaknesses in the system that authorities didn’t see coming.
  3. Feelings of victimhood can lead countries to act irrationally. Just like Russia, other nations, including the U.S., can get caught in a cycle of resentment, which can cloud their judgment and provoke conflict.

Francis Drake’s swashbuckling spirit lives on in Kyiv’s Black Sea battles

Glen’s Substack • 39 implied HN points • 05 Sep 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Ukrainian military chief Kyrylo Budanov is using new technology like sea drones to attack the Russian navy in the Black Sea. This modern strategy is similar to Sir Francis Drake’s historic tactics.
  2. Ukraine’s use of unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) is changing naval warfare and helping them take on Russia's stronger navy. These drones are proving effective in disrupting supply lines and targeting enemy ships.
  3. Despite being outmatched in the Black Sea, Ukraine's innovative use of USVs is forcing Russia to alter its strategies and pull back its naval forces, which might help Ukraine resume its grain exports.

The Big Experiement

Points And Figures • 479 implied HN points • 04 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The new trade deal with the EU has increased tariffs on imports from Europe, which could lead to higher prices for American consumers.
  2. Some European manufacturers will invest heavily in the U.S., which might create jobs here but could cost jobs in Europe.
  3. While the deal may benefit European consumers by reducing their tariffs, it's uncertain how it will impact American jobs or consumer prices in the long run.

The Mainstream Western Worldview Pretends The Global South Does Not Exist

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1913 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The mainstream Western view often ignores the Global South. It's like pretending billions of people don't exist and only focusing on issues that matter to the US and Europe.
  2. In politics and culture, we tend to think only about ourselves. We rarely consider how our comforts come from the struggles of people in other parts of the world.
  3. For a healthier and fairer world, we need to recognize and include everyone in our conversations and decisions. Ignoring others keeps us in a bad relationship with them.

Russia's World War III

Diane Francis • 1159 implied HN points • 07 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. A recent meeting in Jeddah with global leaders, excluding Russia, highlighted the widespread recognition of Russia's aggressive role in the Ukraine war.
  2. Putin's actions have severe consequences beyond Ukraine, affecting global food and energy supply, and creating instability in other regions, especially Africa.
  3. The meeting served as a crucial step for countries to come together to stop Putin, showing that this war is not just a regional issue but a global problem that needs collaboration to solve.

Putin's Push

Diane Francis • 1059 implied HN points • 28 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Putin is under pressure to improve Russia's military situation quickly. His aggressive tactics are leading to more risks and causing problems for his already strained forces.
  2. Russian military leaders face issues with payments and morale, creating a culture of incompetence. Some officers even sold information to Ukraine, showing a lack of trust and discipline.
  3. Ukraine is gaining ground with new support from Western weapons, making it harder for Russia to maintain control, especially in Crimea. This shift could lead to significant changes in power if Ukraine succeeds.

The Gaza Riviera

The Chris Hedges Report • 485 implied HN points • 26 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Many people in Israel don’t see the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza as a serious issue. They view the violence as justified and even exciting.
  2. The systematic destruction and starvation of Gaza are seen by some leaders as a path to building a new society without Palestinians. This idea is compared to historical genocides.
  3. The reality of starvation and its impacts on health are devastating. Millions are at risk, and the urgent need for humanitarian aid is overwhelming.

Hubris to Humiliation

Diane Francis • 1039 implied HN points • 09 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Israel's surprise attack by Hamas has highlighted serious issues within its government and military. The focus on internal politics and building settlements may have weakened their military readiness.
  2. Iran's involvement in the attack is significant, as it aims to strengthen regional opposition to Israel and disrupt potential peace deals. This raises worries about a broader conflict in the region.
  3. The ongoing conflict raises questions about how Israel can effectively respond without worsening its internal divides or causing more civilian harm, as the situation in Gaza remains dire.

Ukraine Opens Up A New War At Sea

Phillips’s Newsletter • 131 implied HN points • 01 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Ukraine has recently launched attacks against Russian oil tankers in the Black Sea, suggesting they want to expand their naval operations. This indicates a significant escalation in the maritime aspects of their conflict.
  2. One attack even targeted a Turkish-owned tanker carrying Russian oil off the coast of Senegal, highlighting the global impact of these naval actions.
  3. These events show that Ukraine is willing to operate far from its borders, possibly changing the dynamics of the war at sea and impacting international shipping.

Where Japan Goes Next

ChinaTalk • 474 implied HN points • 24 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Japan's political landscape is changing quickly, especially after recent elections and the resignation of Prime Minister Ishiba. His leadership is under scrutiny, and many are calling for fresh faces in power.
  2. Public dissatisfaction is rising due to issues like inflation and corruption scandals, which has caused the ruling party, LDP, to lose the trust of voters. Many people feel the party has not improved their lives even after years in power.
  3. New political parties are emerging, like Sanseitō, which has a far-right agenda, and the Democratic Party for the People, which is trying to appeal to younger urban voters. These shifts highlight a demand for different leadership styles in Japan.

THE SHOW NOTES: NFL Ratings Dominance, Obama's Warning to Biden, & Where’s The Defense Secretary?

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 719 implied HN points • 08 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. NFL dominated TV ratings with 93 of top 100 broadcasts last year
  2. Biden's Defense Secretary was hospitalized without notifying the administration, causing communication issues
  3. Biden's campaign fundraising is not meeting expectations, causing concerns within the team

Ukraine Breakthrough

Diane Francis • 159 implied HN points • 03 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Ukraine is being allowed to use long-range missiles against targets in Russia, which could change the war's dynamics.
  2. This move is seen as significant for Ukraine's military strategy.
  3. The discussion on this topic reflects broader discussions about international support for Ukraine in the conflict.

Justin Yifu Lin warns U.S. AI bubble will burst in 5 years, causing another international crisis

Pekingnology • 120 implied HN points • 07 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Experts believe the AI boom in the U.S. could lead to a financial crisis, similar to what happened in 2008. If the AI bubble bursts, it could have a big impact on the global economy.
  2. China is encouraged to change its economic policies to boost growth. By investing more in technology and infrastructure, China can improve its economy and overcome challenges from the U.S.
  3. Some common beliefs about China's slow growth, like blaming state-owned companies or an aging population, are seen as misunderstandings. The real issues are weak global demand and restrictive technology access from the U.S.

A Note on the Closing of the Path to Future U.S. Hegemony—Economic, Political, Geostrategic, Cultural

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 453 implied HN points • 29 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The U.S. is losing its power and influence on the world stage quickly due to poor leadership and chaos in politics. This could lead to a world where no single country dominates, instead resulting in a balance of powers.
  2. The possibility for China to rise as a new global leader is uncertain. While they have the means, it’s unclear if they will be able or willing to take on such a role effectively.
  3. Hegemony isn't guaranteed; it requires ongoing effort and cooperation with other nations. The past strength of the U.S. didn't ensure its future influence, highlighting that global leadership can fade quickly.

This Week in Canada: Mark Carney Pitches a Zionist-Palestinian State

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 579 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Mark Carney, the Prime Minister of Canada, is shifting Canada's focus from the U.S. to Europe in foreign policy. This change comes in response to tensions with the U.S., especially regarding trade issues.
  2. Carney’s administration proposes new speech rules aiming for clearer communication, which has stirred up discussion and controversy. He even suggested the idea of a Zionist-Palestinian state, which has caught attention.
  3. Toronto recently experienced very high temperatures, making the city decide it was too hot for swimming. This reflects how extreme weather is affecting daily life.

The Secret Story of Nordic Prosperity

Erik Examines • 582 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Nordic countries became prosperous through a mix of free-market capitalism and strong government involvement. They focused on creating policies that combined economic efficiency with social benefits.
  2. Socialism has played a significant role in the Nordic model, fostering cooperation among citizens and promoting corporate democracy, which allows workers to have a say in how companies are run.
  3. While Nordic countries are often seen as similar to the U.S., they have unique characteristics, like government control over key resources and industrial planning, that differentiate their economic success from purely capitalist systems.

Stop Crying Over the China "Trap"

Pekingnology • 464 implied HN points • 02 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Many companies entered China's market willingly, and they benefited from it. The idea that they were tricked overlooks the mutual gains made in those deals.
  2. The narrative that China is tricking foreign firms is oversimplified and comes from a sense of entitlement by Western companies. Competition is just a natural part of business.
  3. Historically, many nations, including the U.S., have risen by learning from others. China's growth in technology is just another chapter in the story of global competition.

"Damn the Jews!"

Kevin’s Newsletter • 511 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The Houthi movement in Yemen is popular for opposing Israeli actions in Gaza and has support across West Asia and North Africa.
  2. US public opinion is divided on Middle East policy, with many Americans favoring a ceasefire in Gaza and opposing further Middle East wars.
  3. The Houthi slogan, particularly the phrase 'a curse upon the Jews,' may pose a PR problem in the US and alternative translations are being considered.

No, Mr. President, It Was Russia that Started the War

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1150 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  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.

Ruble, Rubble, Death Spiral

Diane Francis • 999 implied HN points • 24 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Russia is facing a financial crisis due to a sharp drop in oil prices and reduced exports. This has made it difficult for them to fund their military operations and keep the economy stable.
  2. Ukraine is actively targeting Russian shipping routes to disrupt their oil exports. This strategy not only impacts Russia's income but also serves as a psychological tactic against the Russian public.
  3. With many skilled workers leaving Russia and international isolation tightening, the country's currency is weakening. This causes increasing economic pressure on the government, making it harder for them to maintain control.

Top Links 792 Ripping up books. Turkey's economy stumbling. How heritage is outrunning net zero in industrial Germany and cod evolved to avoid the nets.

Chartbook • 515 implied HN points • 07 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. There are significant issues with Turkey's economy, and it may be struggling right now. It's important to pay attention to how this could affect the country and its people.
  2. Germany is trying to balance its industrial heritage with new environmental goals. This shows how complex it can be to transition to greener practices while preserving tradition.
  3. Some fish, like cod, have adapted to avoid fishing nets. This highlights how species can change over time to survive in a changing world.