The hottest International relations Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

January 15, 2025

Letters from an American • 20 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Legislation Political Commentary Government Structure
  1. Joe Biden announced a significant ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas after months of negotiations, focusing on humanitarian efforts and returning hostages.
  2. In his farewell address, Biden reflected on his administration's achievements, emphasizing job creation, healthcare improvements, and infrastructure modernization.
  3. He warned about the dangers of wealth concentration and misinformation in America, urging reforms to protect democracy and ensure fairness for all citizens.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 16.02.2025

steigan.no • 5 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Elections Government International relations Military Affairs
  1. Syria is facing severe challenges from terrorists, leading to dire human rights abuses and a lack of media coverage. Many people are suffering and there seems to be no solution in sight.
  2. The importance of good fatty acids for brain health is emphasized, particularly the balance between omega-6 and omega-3. Proper intake is crucial for mental well-being.
  3. With ongoing wars and conflicts in various regions, there’s a looming risk that new proxy wars could arise in lesser-known places, influenced by international politics and major powers.

What Europe Can do in a Worst-Case Scenario

Phillips’s Newsletter • 83 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Conflict Studies Diplomacy
  1. European countries need to carefully consider their actions in the ongoing Ukraine war. Their support is crucial and impacts the situation significantly.
  2. The Trump administration's plans for Ukraine lack solid security guarantees. This may put European states in a tough spot, as they might have to back plans that don't benefit them or Ukraine.
  3. Many of Trump's proposed peace plans for Ukraine have been evident for a while. Understanding these plans early can help Europe prepare for possible outcomes.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 12.02.2025

steigan.no • 7 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Energy Policy Election Issues Government Accountability International relations
  1. Norway's political crisis reflects a larger energy issue in Europe. The mistakes in Germany's energy policy are impacting Norway and other Nordic countries, causing rising electricity prices.
  2. The US government and its NGOs have been involved in influencing foreign narratives and politics. They've worked to control regions like Ukraine through funding and pressure against local leaders who promote peace.
  3. EU laws are heavily influenced by big business, often sidelining the public's interests. Lobbyists are working closely with politicians to shape regulations in their favor, leading to questions about democracy in decision-making.
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Israel’s War on the Foreign Press (w/ Jeremy Loffredo) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 103 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship International relations Human Rights Press freedom
  1. Journalists face serious risks when reporting on sensitive topics like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, including censorship and detention. Many are afraid to share their experiences due to potential repercussions.
  2. There's a significant level of harsh rhetoric and actions from some Israelis against Palestinians, which reflects a broader aggressive attitude. This rhetoric often goes hand-in-hand with verbal and physical attacks against those advocating for Palestinian rights.
  3. The treatment of journalists and activists in Israel shows a strong divide in how dissent is handled, with severe consequences for those who speak out. This creates an environment where people are discouraged from sharing their truths out of fear of retaliation.

"Damn the Jews!"

Kevin’s Newsletter • 511 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Conflicts Public Opinion Geopolitics International relations Humanitarian Issues
  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.

Ruble, Rubble, Death Spiral

Diane Francis • 999 implied HN points • 24 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Economics Military Strategy Geopolitics
  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.

Weekend Update #105: Vote for Harris because She is Best for the USA, not because She is Best for Ukraine (though She is Best for Ukraine)

Phillips’s Newsletter • 140 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Democracy International relations Political Analysis Public Opinion
  1. Voting for Kamala Harris is crucial because she prioritizes the interests of the USA, which also aligns with supporting Ukraine. It's about choosing a leader who stands for democracy and international law.
  2. Current U.S. aid to Ukraine has been essential, but there's a stark difference between candidates, with some wanting to cut support and others committed to helping Ukraine.
  3. The involvement of North Korean troops in Russia signals a dangerous escalation, highlighting the need for a strong response from Ukraine's allies to ensure stability in the region.

The truth about the Jews

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 1710 implied HN points • 17 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict Middle East International relations Peace Geopolitics
  1. Jewish friends feel disconnected and hurt when others don't reach out or show support during difficult times
  2. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict brings complexities and challenges, making it hard to find a clear path to peace
  3. The struggle for safety and peace continues for Jews, highlighting the historical and ongoing challenges they face

The global defeat of democracy: geopolitics, and what to do about it

Wyclif's Dust • 1073 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Authoritarianism Democracy
  1. Democracies face an international challenge from the new autocratic axis of China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.
  2. International conflicts are a struggle for whose rules will prevail, America's or China's.
  3. Democratic systems need more 'weight' in decision-making and should balance policy populism with institutional elitism.

Chris Hedges Livestream Q&A Tonight on the Future of The Middle East, 4:00pm PT / 7:00pm ET

The Chris Hedges Report • 47 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East International relations Conflict resolution Media Studies Public Discourse
  1. Chris Hedges will host a live Q&A about the future of the Middle East. It happens at 4:00pm PT / 7:00pm ET.
  2. People can ask questions during the livestream, but you need to be a paid subscriber to participate.
  3. Make sure your questions are short and direct so they can be easily read during the show.

Wang Yi at Munich Security Conference

Pekingnology • 132 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Diplomacy Global Governance Multilateralism
  1. The world is becoming multipolar, meaning many countries will have more equal power instead of just a few dominating. This is a positive change that can lead to more fairness among nations.
  2. It's essential to follow international laws and treat all countries equally, regardless of their power. Respecting each other's sovereignty helps maintain peace and stability.
  3. Cooperation, openness, and working together are key to solving global problems. Countries should not isolate themselves but instead collaborate for a better future.

The Curse Of Zhou Bai Den.

Trying to Understand the World • 9 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Media influence International relations Cultural Identity Historical context
  1. Many European countries seem overly focused on US politics, often ignoring important issues happening in their own nations. This shows a lack of balance in how they engage with global affairs.
  2. There's a trend where European elites adopt American cultural and social norms without questioning them, which often doesn't fit well with their own histories and values. This can lead to confusion and loss of cultural identity.
  3. The historical experiences of Europe differ greatly from those of the US, leading to a disconnect in understanding and addressing global issues. Many Europeans are grappling with their past while trying to navigate a future influenced by American ideals.

Israel's Intel Failure

Diane Francis • 719 implied HN points • 07 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics Intelligence Security Conflict International relations Terrorism
  1. Israel's intelligence missed major warnings about an attack from Hamas, despite receiving detailed information about their plans. Many red flags and alerts were ignored by the leadership.
  2. In September 2023, Ukraine's intelligence warned Israel that a group was preparing Hamas for an attack, but this information did not reach the right people.
  3. Even soldiers on the ground noticed suspicious activity and reported it, but their concerns were dismissed by their commanders, which contributed to the surprise attack.

Ukrainian Exceptionalism

Diane Francis • 979 implied HN points • 07 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Military Strategy Cyber Warfare Geopolitical Issues Conflict Studies
  1. Ukraine has shown remarkable resilience and innovation in its war against Russia, using advanced technology and a strong community spirit. They are known for developing new weapons like drones that give them an edge despite being outnumbered.
  2. The country boasts a high level of education and has a large number of skilled engineers and IT workers. This expertise helps Ukraine to build and adapt technology quickly to support their military efforts.
  3. Ukraine is transforming how wars are fought with smart tech and creativity. Their approach, including using civilian resources and tech teams, has changed the battlefield and shocked their adversaries.

Commentator

Castalia • 339 implied HN points • 20 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy National Security International relations Legislation Political Analysis
  1. The relationship between the US and Israel is strained, especially over the situation in Rafah. Netanyahu seems more focused on his political survival than on international alliances.
  2. The CIA has had deep involvement in Ukraine long before the full-scale invasion, which changes how we understand the war. Ukraine was actively seeking US support and sharing intelligence to strengthen its position against Russia.
  3. There's a new push in the US to ban TikTok due to national security concerns. This reflects a shift toward more government control over technology and the internet, especially regarding threats posed by foreign entities like China.

Global Refugee Mess

Diane Francis • 939 implied HN points • 02 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Policy Public Safety International relations Civil Rights Political theory
  1. Many wealthy countries are facing problems after accepting large numbers of refugees. Issues like crime and social unrest have been reported in places like Sweden and Canada.
  2. There are concerns about how the current refugee system is exploited, with some people using it to gain access to these countries without being true refugees. This has led to discussions about revising the UN Refugee Convention.
  3. Countries like Britain are calling for reforms to manage migration better. They believe that protecting borders and ensuring proper integration is crucial for both the safety of their societies and the well-being of genuine refugees.

TLP Week in Review, 1/28-2/3

The Liberal Patriot • 471 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Social Issues International relations Elections Government
  1. The Atlantic discusses the negative mindset affecting trust in people. Let's focus on positivity and belonging.
  2. Foreign Affairs compares current conflicts to pre-WWII signs. Awareness is crucial to prevent a global war.
  3. Freedom House reports on autocratic regimes using tactics on US campuses. This undermines academic freedom.

International Womens Day and Ukraine

Diane Francis • 359 implied HN points • 08 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Gender Issues Conflict Human Rights International relations Women's Rights
  1. International Women's Day highlights the contributions and struggles of women, especially in times of crisis. It's a reminder to honor and support women everywhere.
  2. The situation in Ukraine shows how women are playing a vital role in the fight against adversity. Their bravery and resilience are inspiring.
  3. Media coverage, like interviews and broadcasts, helps bring attention to the stories of women in conflict. Sharing these stories is important for awareness and change.

Ukraine: Stalemate or Checkmate

Diane Francis • 779 implied HN points • 13 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Military Geopolitics International relations Conflict Security
  1. The war in Ukraine is currently stuck in a stalemate, and new technology from the West is needed to change that. Many believe Ukraine is losing, but they've actually done significant damage to Russia's military.
  2. Ukraine's counteroffensive slowed down due to delays in receiving promised military support from NATO, giving Russia a chance to prepare defenses.
  3. The recent conflict in Israel and Gaza is drawing attention and resources away from Ukraine, which could be part of Putin's strategy to gain an advantage in the war.

US Authorizes (limited) Long-Range Strike

Phillips’s Newsletter • 102 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Military International relations Foreign Policy Defense
  1. The Biden Administration has allowed Ukraine to use US long-range strike systems, which is a significant approval after many months of conflict.
  2. President Zelensky emphasized that actions, not announcements, will define their response, implying that military actions will soon take place.
  3. There are still many unanswered questions about this decision, and its impact may depend on future developments and limitations imposed on Ukraine.

German leftist lawmaker says US soldiers and nukes must leave her country

Geopolitical Economy Report • 916 implied HN points • 01 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Military Nuclear Weapons Geopolitics
  1. German Left Party lawmaker Sevim Dağdelen called for US soldiers and nuclear weapons to leave Germany, emphasizing the need for a shift in the relationship with the US.
  2. Dağdelen addressed the Bundestag, highlighting concerns about US military bases in Germany operating as extraterritorial areas outside German law, and called for an end to this situation.
  3. She criticized Germany's alignment with US foreign policy decisions, such as supporting NATO actions in Ukraine and failing to condemn the US war of aggression in Iraq, calling for a more independent stance on international issues.

Can Great Power Politics Be Ethical?

Castalia • 299 implied HN points • 27 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy International relations Political theory Political Ethics Military Strategy
  1. Great power politics often involves tough choices where states prioritize their own interests. This leads to conflicts and a belief that violence can sometimes be necessary to maintain power.
  2. Realism, a key theory in international relations, suggests that international laws and good intentions often don't work. Instead, powerful nations will act according to their own interests, regardless of fairness.
  3. Despite hopes for a more cooperative international system, powerful states rarely act differently than weaker ones, and this creates a cycle of conflict driven by the pursuit of power.

Donald Trump Wants Another Nakba

John’s Substack • 11 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy International relations Political Analysis
  1. Donald Trump has shown support for aggressive actions against Palestinians in Gaza. He believes Israel should have the freedom to remove Palestinians from the area.
  2. Recent talks indicated that Israel made significant concessions to Hamas in a ceasefire. This shows a shift in dynamics that might affect the ongoing conflict.
  3. The conversation highlights the moral implications of U.S. foreign policy and how it shapes conflicts in the Middle East. It raises questions about ethics in international relations.

China Capitulates

Diane Francis • 919 implied HN points • 21 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Economic Policy
  1. China's economy is facing serious issues like high unemployment and a faltering currency, partly due to mistakes made by its government. It has realized that battling the U.S. economically is not a winning strategy.
  2. Historically, China has had a troubled relationship with Russia, and its current closeness to Moscow is hurting its ties with the West. To improve its situation, China is now working to distance itself from Russia and fix its foreign policy.
  3. China's leaders are trying to mend relations with the U.S. and other countries to strengthen their economy. This shift shows they understand the importance of cooperation instead of conflict.

The Captagon Edition

Why is this interesting? • 361 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Sanctions Middle East
  1. Syria has turned to producing Captagon, a powerful amphetamine, as a primary way to sustain its economy under heavy sanctions. This drug trade is now crucial for the country's finances.
  2. The Captagon business is very profitable, with low production costs and high selling prices in the Middle East. It brings in billions of dollars each year, making it one of Syria's top exports.
  3. The spread of Captagon is causing serious problems for neighboring countries, like rising addiction rates and increased smuggling. This has led to tensions and stricter border controls in those areas.

In Wake of ETF Approval, Bitcoin Worldwide Matures

Bitcoin Magazine Pro • 511 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
💰 Finance Cryptocurrency Government Regulation Digital Assets Economic Impact International relations
  1. Bitcoin's worldwide acceptance is growing post ETF approval in the US.
  2. Countries are reevaluating their digital asset policies in response to Bitcoin's rise.
  3. Bitcoin is influencing global economic and political decisions, especially in countries like El Salvador, Argentina, India, and China.

Former Al Qaeda Commander Seizes Power in Syria; Washington, DC Cheers!

Michael Tracey • 66 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Terrorism U.S. foreign policy International relations Political Analysis
  1. A former Al Qaeda leader has taken control in Syria, which is surprising to many. This shows how complicated the situation in Syria is right now.
  2. Despite the controversial background of this leader, there seems to be some support for him in Washington, DC. This raises questions about international politics and who is supported.
  3. The author hints at exploring other political figures like Tulsi Gabbard in future writings. This suggests there might be more discussions about less conventional political choices.

The Philippines and the People's Republic at Center Stage with Ray Powell on Midrats

CDR Salamander • 511 implied HN points • 14 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics National Security
  1. Serious developments are happening between The Philippines and the Peoples Republic of China in the Western Pacific.
  2. The Philippines is at the center of the main game in the Western Pacific.
  3. Ray Powell, with his extensive experience in the U.S. Air Force, is discussing the ongoing story between these two nations.

NATO Escalation & Propaganda Take Us to War

Glenn’s Substack • 119 implied HN points • 10 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Military Strategy Propaganda Geopolitics Conflict Studies
  1. NATO's actions are escalating tensions, which could lead to war. It's important to understand how military alliances affect global peace.
  2. Propaganda plays a big role in shaping public opinion about war. People need to be critical of the information they receive.
  3. Dialogue and conversation are crucial to prevent misunderstandings. Clear communication can help avoid unnecessary conflict.

Commentator

Castalia • 379 implied HN points • 21 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military conflict Elections Political Commentary International relations
  1. It's really hard to talk about the Israel-Gaza conflict because people have strong feelings and different views. It's important to recognize Israel's right to defend itself, but many innocent people in Gaza are suffering too.
  2. Alexei Navalny showed great courage by returning to Russia despite knowing the risks. He represents the idea of standing firm on one's principles, and his legacy challenges us to think about bravery in the face of tyranny.
  3. The current political situation in the U.S. has lots of people worried about Biden's age and electability. There's a growing discussion about whether it's time for the Democratic Party to find a new candidate who could energize voters and win the upcoming election.

Presidential Election Puts El Salvador’s Bitcoin Future at a Crossroads

Bitcoin Magazine Pro • 432 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Bitcoin Presidential Election Financial Institutions International relations
  1. El Salvador's presidential election will determine the future of Bitcoin in the country.
  2. Nayib Bukele's re-election is crucial for Bitcoin's support in El Salvador.
  3. Bitcoin's presence in El Salvador faces challenges but is expanding through initiatives like tourism and mining infrastructure.

Israel: A Trap and No Endgame

Diane Francis • 799 implied HN points • 23 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Middle East International relations Conflict Refugees Diplomacy
  1. Israel is facing a complicated situation with no clear end goal, especially regarding the future of Gaza. The military actions may not solve the underlying issues and could make things worse for everyone involved.
  2. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza could lead to more terrorism and instability in the region if not properly addressed. There needs to be a solid plan for who will govern Gaza after Israel's military actions.
  3. The international community should push for negotiations that address the Palestinian issue. It's important for everyone in the region, including Arab states and Israel, to find a peaceful solution together.

Weekend Update #101: Biden throws in the Towel

Phillips’s Newsletter • 172 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Policy Leadership International relations
  1. Biden has made a significant decision that may indicate a change in direction for his administration. It's important to keep an eye on how this will affect his leadership and policies going forward.
  2. There is a focus on the importance of support for Harris, emphasising her role in future plans. Her success seems crucial for the party's strategy.
  3. Stoltenberg acknowledged a mistake regarding Ukraine's strategy, hinting at a need for reassessment. This shows that there are ongoing challenges that require careful handling.