The hottest International relations Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

She Fled Repression in Hong Kong. Will the UK Betray Her?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 380 implied HN points • 31 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Chloe Cheung, a Hong Kong activist, lives in fear in London because her government has placed a bounty on her for speaking out. She constantly looks over her shoulder and varies her routes to avoid being found.
  2. The UK government is considering extradition deals that could let Hong Kong target political activists in the UK. This raises concerns about whether the UK will protect those fleeing repression.
  3. There is a tension between national interests and protecting human rights. Some British officials argue that extraditing criminals is important for justice, but it may put activists at risk.

Top Links 833 How tariffs hit Japanese cars. Why wifi on European trains sucks. Meloni builds a bridge and Saddam's romance novels.

Chartbook • 314 implied HN points • 18 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Tariffs can really hurt Japanese car manufacturers, as they affect how many cars they can sell in markets like the U.S.
  2. European trains often have poor wifi, making it frustrating for travelers who want to stay connected.
  3. There's an interesting cultural angle to politics, as seen with Meloni's bridge project and Saddam Hussein's unconventional romantic novels.

What Happens If Iran’s Regime Collapses?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 496 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. There's a growing possibility that Iran's regime may collapse, especially after recent military actions and calls for change from figures like Reza Pahlavi, the late Shah's son.
  2. History shows that regime changes don't always lead to stable governments. For example, past changes in Libya and Egypt resulted in chaos and conflict.
  3. Recent protests and movements in Iran suggest that many people are seeking democracy, making the current situation in Iran different from previous regime changes.
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Putin Weaker? Nyet

Diane Francis • 939 implied HN points • 31 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Wagner, a private military group, is a key part of Putin's strategy and makes a lot of money from warfare and operations around the world.
  2. Putin uses Wagner not just for military actions but also to gain influence and control over resources in African countries, often through illegal means.
  3. Despite issues in Ukraine, Putin remains strong because of his partnerships and the ongoing power of groups like Wagner in the global landscape.

Facebook censors journalist Seymour Hersh's report on Nord Stream pipeline attack

Geopolitical Economy Report • 837 implied HN points • 26 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Facebook censored a report by journalist Seymour Hersh on the Nord Stream pipeline sabotage, instead directing users to a website funded by a NATO member state, Norway.
  2. The US government and media failed to offer an alternative explanation to Hersh's report on the attacks, despite attempting to undermine his credibility.
  3. Western governments, not just Facebook, have censored Russian and Iranian media outlets, such as RT and Sputnik, as well as seizing the domain of Iran's Press TV.

Beginning of the End for Russia

Diane Francis • 1099 implied HN points • 24 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Prigozhin, a Russian warlord, openly rebelled against the government, criticizing the war in Ukraine as unjust and driven by greed.
  2. His actions have created unrest within Russia, as some military units are refusing to fight against him, which could weaken Putin's hold on power.
  3. Even if Prigozhin fails in his rebellion, he has already challenged Putin, highlighting discontent and a potential shift in power dynamics within Russia.

Russia will collapse

Diane Francis • 1139 implied HN points • 15 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Russia is facing a financial crisis and military decline, which could lead to its collapse, similar to the Soviet Union's breakup in 1991.
  2. Various regions in Russia are seeking more independence or outright separation, especially those closer to Europe, making a breakup seem increasingly likely.
  3. If Russia does break apart, it could create numerous new nations, but the West needs to prepare for this possibility and support those regions in establishing their independence.

The case for keeping Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger within ECOWAS

An Africanist Perspective • 356 implied HN points • 24 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Landlocked countries like Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger depend heavily on coastal ECOWAS states for trade, and leaving ECOWAS could lead to economic and logistical challenges that may affect the movement of goods, people, and migrant workers.
  2. There is a historical precedent of military coups in the Sahel region that ECOWAS leaders need to consider when deciding how to handle the situation, including the need for constructive dialogue and understanding the motivations behind the putschists.
  3. The current crisis in ECOWAS highlights the challenges that African regional economic communities and the African Union will face as individual countries are pulled in different directions by global powers, emphasizing the need for regional unity and effective diplomacy.

Putin's Amigo

Diane Francis • 579 implied HN points • 14 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Nicolas Maduro, the president of Venezuela, is a strong ally of Putin and has worsened his country's economy despite its oil wealth.
  2. Maduro has allowed Russian companies and military groups to operate in Venezuela, contributing to his regime's security and resource extraction.
  3. Recently, Maduro claimed land in Guyana and threatened invasion, which is seen as a distraction from his own economic issues and has raised tensions in the region.

The Shadow Commander Edition

Why is this interesting? • 482 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Qassem Soleimani was a powerful figure in the Middle East who influenced many conflicts, but most people didn't know who he was. His methods involved quiet diplomacy and personal connections rather than flashy displays of power.
  2. Soleimani built a complex network of militias that depended on his relationships and the stories he told. His approach showed that personal influence can sometimes be more powerful than formal agreements.
  3. After his death, the network he created began to weaken. This highlights that even intricate systems can unravel without strong leadership and the personal relationships that fueled them.

We need to talk about micro-treason

Jeff Giesea • 219 implied HN points • 08 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Using TikTok can be seen as a security risk because it is owned by a Chinese company. Many people believe it could contribute to a national security threat if many users stay connected.
  2. The idea of 'micro-treason' is introduced to describe small actions that collectively make a country vulnerable. This term helps us discuss the impact of seemingly harmless behaviors.
  3. It's important for society to be more aware of actions that could harm national security, even if those actions seem small at an individual level. We need to have conversations about these issues to protect our country.

Xi Zhongxun: China Book of the Year

ChinaTalk • 459 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Xi Zhongxun's life shows how suffering can lead to a strong commitment to a cause. For him, the struggles he faced made him passionate about communism and the Party.
  2. The book highlights that Xi Zhongxun was more complex than just a 'reformer.' He had conflicting views about individualism and Party demands, and his actions were sometimes driven by what the Party needed.
  3. It’s important to recognize that labels like 'good' and 'bad' don’t always fit. Xi Zhongxun's story reminds us that everyone in the Party had moments of both virtue and wrongdoing.

Chartbook 328 An economics Nobel for Biden's neocon moment. On AJR's "Whig" philosophy of history.

Chartbook • 1473 implied HN points • 19 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The recent Nobel Prize in economics was awarded to three economists who stressed the importance of societal institutions in achieving economic prosperity. Their work highlights how fairness and rights can drive economic growth.
  2. The Biden administration supports this view, aligning their economic strategies with the theories of these Nobel winners. They believe government policies can help bridge gaps like inequality and support innovation.
  3. The traditional ideas of free-market economics are becoming less popular, and the current trend leans towards more government intervention in the economy. This shift reflects a broader skepticism about past economic policies.

China's Russia

Diane Francis • 1059 implied HN points • 22 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The Russia-Ukraine War may lead to the breakup of Russia, similar to the Soviet-Afghanistan War. Russia is losing allies and financial resources, which could cause some regions to want independence.
  2. China has a significant interest in the resource-rich areas of Russia, especially Manchuria, which used to belong to China. As Russia weakens, China might look to reclaim these lands, boosting its own economy.
  3. The partnership between China and Russia is changing. China is distancing itself from Russia after the Ukraine invasion and is cautiously moving towards the West, showing it might not support Russia like before.

Vlad the Terrible

Diane Francis • 1019 implied HN points • 29 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Putin is facing serious challenges to his power after a failed mutiny, showing that his grip on Russia is weakening. Many in his inner circle are worried and uncertain about his leadership.
  2. The oligarchs and elites in Russia are tired of the ongoing war and its negative impact on their businesses. They might push for a change in leadership or a shift in strategy to stabilize the country.
  3. There is potential for a new administration of moderates to emerge, which could lead to negotiations to end the war in Ukraine and help rebuild Russia.

Trump’s Foreign Policy Revolution

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 885 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  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.

Politburo meeting, no announcement of Third Plenum; Li Shangfu missing from study session; Evergrande chairman under "control"; TikTok

Sinocism • 766 implied HN points • 28 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The Politburo meeting did not announce the dates for the Third Plenum, raising speculation about possible delays or disagreements.
  2. During the Politburo Study Session on WTO reform, key officials were absent, indicating potential areas of concern.
  3. Evergrande's chairman being placed under police surveillance raises doubts about the company's ability to avoid liquidation, impacting other struggling real estate firms.

The Opportunity Costs of Offensive War

Points And Figures • 1039 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Opportunity costs are important when making decisions, especially in war. They help clarify the impacts of our choices by forcing us to think in numerical terms.
  2. Advanced technologies like drones and robots are changing warfare. These advancements could minimize human losses, which changes how countries weigh the risks of engaging in conflict.
  3. Winning the tech race is crucial for national security. If a country falls behind in technological advancements, it could lose its strategic advantages in future conflicts.

China’s AI Gambit: Code as Standards

ChinaTalk • 385 implied HN points • 10 Jul 25
🕹 Technology International relations
  1. China aims to increase its global influence in AI by exporting technology and setting international standards. This is similar to how the U.S. spread TCP/IP as the internet standard.
  2. The country is encouraged to develop a robust open-source ecosystem to attract international developers and early adopters. This includes creating user-friendly tools and resources for building AI models.
  3. Chinese talent should be encouraged to work abroad to help spread its technologies and establish standards globally. Connecting with international communities can strengthen China's position in the global tech landscape.

As Gaza starves, Trump tells Israel to 'finish the job'

Aaron Mate • 362 implied HN points • 27 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. There is a serious humanitarian crisis in Gaza where many people are starving, with aid groups warning of mass starvation, especially among children and the elderly.
  2. The U.S. government, under Trump's administration, is supporting Israel's actions in Gaza instead of pushing for aid and ceasefire talks, which has worsened the situation for the Palestinian people.
  3. Israel's siege of Gaza is aimed at making the area unlivable, with discussions about making life so difficult that Palestinians are pushed to leave rather than granting them rights or statehood.

Prediction is Very Difficult, Especially About the Future

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 1089 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Making predictions about the future is really hard and can be very humbling. It's often surprising how wrong we can be when looking back at our guesses.
  2. Some predictions that rely on complex models don't always give us the best answers. Sometimes, simpler insights work better for making quick decisions.
  3. Evaluating how well we did with our predictions can help us learn. It's important to look back and see where we were right or wrong to improve for next time.

Israel's Real Existential Threat

Diane Francis • 699 implied HN points • 26 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Israel is facing a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza after its military actions, causing widespread destruction and displacement of civilians. Many worry this could escalate the conflict and create a larger regional war.
  2. Iran and Russia are seen as key players in stirring conflict in the Middle East, with their actions indirectly putting pressure on Israel and its neighbors.
  3. Israel's approach to its military defense has led to backlash and a perception of double standards, affecting its relationships with neighboring countries and global opinion.

Who Cares Wins

Wrong Side of History • 360 implied HN points • 15 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Morality can be affected by what people value and believe. When people feel there's a lack of guidance, they may turn to extreme actions.
  2. People often become radicalized by a strong sense of duty and loyalty to their beliefs. They see their actions as a form of protection for their community.
  3. Understanding why individuals choose violence can help in finding ways to address their motivations and prevent such actions in the future.

South Korea Steps Up

Diane Francis • 779 implied HN points • 14 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. South Korea has increased its support for Ukraine, marking a significant shift in its international stance. This is partly due to South Korea's own history of being affected by Russian aggression during the Korean War.
  2. The country has been exporting military supplies to Ukraine and is officially joining its alliance, showcasing its readiness to confront threats from North Korea and Russia.
  3. A South Korean soldier, Sgt Kim Jae-kyung, has actively campaigned for support of Ukraine, reminding people that South Korea received help from many nations in its own time of need.

How to Use Banned US Models in China

ChinaTalk • 474 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
🕹 Technology International relations
  1. In China, U.S. AI models like ChatGPT are mostly banned, but people can still buy access to them online through platforms like Taobao. This shows how censorship can be bypassed and how demand for these tools remains strong.
  2. Sellers on Taobao use various tactics to market and price access to U.S. models, including cheaper options and clever advertising strategies to avoid censorship. They exploit loopholes that let them offer these services at lower prices than official sources.
  3. The grey market for these AI models continues to thrive despite government restrictions. This suggests that the state is more focused on controlling specific models like ChatGPT rather than suppressing all U.S. AI technology, indicating a complex relationship with censorship.

Turkey's Russia

Diane Francis • 939 implied HN points • 03 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Ramzan Kadyrov, a leader in Chechnya, has shown loyalty to Putin but could also cause trouble in the North Caucasus region. His past actions and armed forces make him a figure to watch closely.
  2. The North Caucasus is home to many non-Russian people who have faced harsh treatment. As Russia weakens, there could be movements for independence in this area.
  3. Many people in the North Caucasus are unhappy with Russia's military actions, especially since they have lost many young men in the conflict. This growing resentment might lead to changes in the region soon.

My Ancestors Fled Ukraine. It Was America That Allowed Me to Return.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 834 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  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.

Why does the US support Israel? A geopolitical analysis with economist Michael Hudson

Geopolitical Economy Report • 617 implied HN points • 13 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. US support for Israel is primarily driven by geopolitical strategies and control over the Middle East region.
  2. The US sees Israel as a military base to exert control over oil reserves in the Middle East and maintain dominance in the global economy.
  3. Historical parallels can be drawn between the Crusades and current US strategies in the Middle East, indicating power struggles for oil resources and global control.

Top Links 774 One Big Beautiful Giveaway. How Turkish pistols conquered US markets. The Chinese legacy of Fischer-Tropsch. Haiti's escalating crisis & "where the bombs fall".

Chartbook • 429 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Turkish pistols have become popular in the U.S. market, showing how global trade can shift consumer preferences.
  2. The Fischer-Tropsch process has a significant connection to China, highlighting its impact on industry and energy production.
  3. Haiti is facing serious challenges, and the discussion around it includes concerns about the consequences of conflict.

Top Links 758 Delinquent consumer debt. South Africa's unemployment crisis. Napoleon's sword and the legend of the "Black Star" pistol.

Chartbook • 472 implied HN points • 03 Jun 25
💰 Finance International relations
  1. Delinquent consumer debt in the US is on the rise, which could indicate economic issues ahead.
  2. South Africa is facing a serious unemployment crisis, highlighting challenges in its job market.
  3. There are fascinating stories about Napoleon's sword and the legend surrounding the 'Black Star' pistol that connect history and culture.

Nagorno-Karabakh update: September 21 2023

Foreign Exchanges • 727 implied HN points • 22 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. A new status quo in the south Caucasus region is emerging following recent events in Nagorno-Karabakh.
  2. A ceasefire has been declared between Azerbaijan and Karabakh, with Karabakh authorities agreeing to disarm their defense forces and remove Armenian military forces.
  3. Concerns about potential ethnic cleansing and the implications for Armenia's diplomatic relationships are key issues arising from the situation.

A Memo for Trump's Energy Czar

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 1226 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Energy policy shouldn't just be about undoing past actions. There needs to be a clear plan moving forward that addresses the future needs of the country.
  2. The new energy czar has a chance to shape America's energy policies in a positive direction. This involves creating a comprehensive energy plan that considers reliability and affordability.
  3. It's important to balance energy production with environmental concerns. Supporting cleaner energy technologies can help reduce emissions while also meeting economic goals.

Russia leaves neoliberal West to join World Majority - Economists Radhika Desai and Michael Hudson explain

Geopolitical Economy Report • 717 implied HN points • 20 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Russia is turning away from the West and moving towards integration with the 'World Majority' in the Global South.
  2. There is a shift towards a multipolar world order, with countries like China and Russia promoting a move away from Western finance capitalism towards a more socialist global majority.
  3. Keynes' proposals for a new international financial system, including bancor and International Clearing Union, are being revisited by China and show a push away from the dominance of the US dollar.

Memo to Trump: Beware the ‘Reverse Teddy’

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 908 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Trump's recent actions have shown strength in dealing with issues in Latin America, but it may come at the cost of ignoring global concerns.
  2. In his first term, Trump managed to maintain a strong presence in Europe and Asia, avoiding new conflicts and making significant deals.
  3. There are worries that in his second term, Trump might focus too much on the Western Hemisphere and neglect vital international relationships.

The Demise of the Liberal International Order and the Return of Great Power Rivalry

Glenn’s Substack • 99 implied HN points • 10 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The liberal international order is in decline, which means the traditional alliances and cooperation among countries are weakening. This shift is leading to more competition between powerful nations.
  2. The situation in Ukraine has escalated, showing how tensions between countries are rising and affecting global stability. This is a sign that countries are prioritizing their own interests over collaboration.
  3. The future of US-European relations is uncertain as old partnerships are tested. There's a growing need for these nations to rethink their strategies for dealing with one another and the new world dynamics.

Israel vs. Everybody

Nonzero Newsletter • 361 implied HN points • 18 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Israel is continuing its military actions in Lebanon and Syria, claiming they are necessary for national security. This situation is tense and has resulted in many casualties despite agreements for ceasefire.
  2. AI technology is developing quickly, including farms running with little human involvement and new undersea data centers for energy efficiency. These technologies are both exciting and pose new challenges.
  3. International views on the US and China are shifting, with more countries viewing China positively. This change might be linked to political shifts in the US.