The hottest International relations Substack posts right now

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The Scramble for French Africa

Diane Francis • 659 implied HN points • 04 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Military Affairs
  1. Recent military coups in former French colonies, like Gabon and Niger, reflect growing instability as local governments lose support and seek new alliances. This situation is often fueled by foreign powers, especially China and Russia, looking to expand their influence.
  2. France's past colonial actions led to many African countries facing issues like dictatorship and lack of democracy, which has contributed to current unrest. Many African nations feel abandoned by France, leading to a rejection of French military assistance.
  3. As countries like China and Russia gain power in Africa, France is struggling to keep its influence. New leadership may not guarantee democracy, but there is a hope for fair elections and rights, though many see these coups as just swapping one corrupt leader for another.

Brazil's Lula travels to China and calls to end US dollar dominance

Geopolitical Economy Report • 657 implied HN points • 16 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Economic Cooperation International Trade Global Development
  1. Brazil's President Lula da Silva visited China to deepen strategic partnerships and challenge US dollar dominance by signing cooperation agreements, focusing on trading in local currencies.
  2. China is Brazil's largest trading partner, with significant trade surpluses, and both countries have seen substantial growth in bilateral trade over the years.
  3. Political coups in Brazil, backed by the US, led to economic downturns, but under Lula and Dilma, the country advanced, lifting millions out of poverty and shaping key economic relationships.

Total Kievan Debellation

Big Serge Thought • 13 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Military conflict International relations Geopolitics War Strategy Global Security
  1. In 2024, Russia made significant gains in southern Donetsk, overcoming Ukrainian defenses and pushing the front closer to key areas like Pokrovsk. This was a crucial change after years of stalled fighting.
  2. Ukraine's attempts to expand its military efforts, particularly with the offensive into Kursk, did not succeed and left its defenses in Donbas weakened. Many resources were spent ineffectively, further straining Ukraine's situation.
  3. Ukraine is facing rising manpower issues, with mobilization efforts falling short and desertions increasing. Their ability to maintain sufficient fighting power is decreasing, making their future in the war very uncertain.

Ukraine Support Holds

Diane Francis • 699 implied HN points • 10 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion Military Aid Election Impact International relations Foreign Policy
  1. Support for Ukraine is strong among many countries, including the US and EU nations. Polls show that people want to continue helping Ukraine against Russia.
  2. Most Americans believe military aid to Ukraine is important, and a large majority oppose negotiations unless Russia withdraws first. This suggests a clear message that people want to see Ukraine win.
  3. Concerns about the security risks of helping Ukraine have decreased over time. Many European citizens also want stronger military ties and support for Ukraine as a united front against Russian aggression.
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Chartbook 216: Heroic periodization: histories of Bretton Woods & the "New Washington Consensus"

Chartbook • 1745 implied HN points • 29 May 23
🌍 World Politics Monetary Policy Economic History Global Governance International relations
  1. The era of Bretton Woods had a complex history and its implications for today's economic policy are significant.
  2. Historical narratives like Bretton Woods can be used to legitimize and motivate action, but may not always align with reality.
  3. Understanding the continuous process of policy-making improvisation without succumbing to its complexities is crucial for shaping economic policy.

The New York Times simps for nationalism abroad

Yasha Levine • 648 implied HN points • 21 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics Nationalism Russia Democracy International relations
  1. The New York Times is accused of projecting nationalist ideas onto foreign countries while not supporting nationalism domestically.
  2. The writer critiques the idea that Russia needs to be broken up for democracy to flourish, highlighting the implication that a multi-ethnic country is seen as illegitimate.
  3. The essay discusses the importance of homogeneity in a nation-state, contrasting it with the diversity of multi-ethnic societies.

Take That, China: Our Dumbest Young People Are Invading Your App

I Might Be Wrong • 14 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Social media Pop culture Youth Trends International relations Humor
  1. A lot of TikTok users are moving to a Chinese app called Xiaohongshu after being upset about bans. It's funny to think that they're going to a Chinese-owned app when they were worried about China.
  2. Chinese users of Xiaohongshu are surprised and a bit frustrated to see so many English videos popping up. They didn't expect so many Americans to join their platform.
  3. This situation kind of feels like a playful prank, where American users are now amping up the chaos in a place they never thought would happen. It's like a funny surprise attack on the Chinese app scene.

Sanctions 'undermine hegemony of dollar', US Treasury admits

Geopolitical Economy Report • 637 implied HN points • 21 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Sanctions Geopolitics Global Economy International relations Humanitarian Issues
  1. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen acknowledged that unilateral sanctions could weaken the dominance of the dollar.
  2. Sanctions have caused millions of deaths around the world, with examples like Iraq and Venezuela.
  3. Yellen implied that US plans involve using some of Russia's seized foreign exchange reserves to fund Ukraine reconstruction, which could have geopolitical implications.

Criminals welcome as US recruits foreign proxies to wage 'irregular war' on adversaries

Geopolitical Economy Report • 637 implied HN points • 18 May 23
🌍 World Politics Military operations International relations Foreign Policy Human Rights
  1. The US military recruits foreign fighters as proxies for irregular warfare but does not vet them for past atrocities.
  2. Special Operations Command plays a significant role in secretive shadow wars across the globe.
  3. US special operations forces have been active in the majority of countries worldwide, focusing heavily on irregular warfare.

The Genocide in Gaza and Its Enablers

Eunomia • 334 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Genocide International relations Human Rights Foreign Policy Diplomacy
  1. Biden's response to the war in Gaza shows the consequences of giving another state unlimited support.
  2. Many Democrats believe that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, yet Western governments are hesitant to act on this evidence.
  3. Public confidence in Biden's ability to handle international crises is low, especially after his support for Israel during the Gaza conflict.

I Guess I'll Be the Asshole to Point Out that the Gaza War Isn't Over

I Might Be Wrong • 10 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict International relations Human Rights Middle East Geopolitics
  1. The Gaza War isn't officially over, even with a ceasefire in place. People need to understand what a ceasefire really means; it's just a break, not a permanent solution.
  2. Many protesters use strong words like 'genocide' and 'apartheid' without really knowing their meanings. It’s important to know what these terms actually define.
  3. Negotiations for the future are set to start soon, but there are still many complex issues to deal with. This means that fighting could easily resume once the ceasefire ends.

Russia Collapses

Diane Francis • 1199 implied HN points • 16 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Economic Sanctions Conflict Geopolitics Military Strategy
  1. Many Russians are living in poverty due to the long-lasting war and its effects on the economy. People are struggling with basic needs like heat, water, and jobs.
  2. Putin is not being truthful about the state of the Russian economy. Western sanctions are hurting it badly, and many businesses have shut down as capital is leaving the country.
  3. Russia's energy trade is in trouble because of price caps and Europe moving away from Russian oil and gas. This is leading to a significant drop in state revenues and economic decline.

Breaking History Ep. 29: How to Extract the British Hand from Pakistan

Matt Ehret's Insights • 334 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Global Cooperation International relations
  1. In Breaking History Ep. 29, there's discussion on extracting British influence from Pakistan and creating energy sovereignty.
  2. The role of the Belt and Road Initiative, new infrastructure developments, and energy sovereignty in Pakistan is highlighted.
  3. The Bhutto family's legacy in the fight for energy sovereignty and the role of current Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari are discussed.

Military Metrics and the Russian 2024 Offensive

Phillips’s Newsletter • 103 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics Military Strategy International relations Conflict analysis Geopolitics War reporting
  1. How a war is presented can greatly influence public perception. It's important to understand that not everything shown in the media represents the true situation on the ground.
  2. Recent reports highlight Russian advances in Ukraine, which may create the impression of inevitable success. However, these reports can sometimes be misleading or exaggerated.
  3. Understanding military metrics and outcomes requires looking beyond flashy maps and headlines. A deeper analysis can provide a clearer picture of the actual progress in a conflict.

WHO Disinformation on the COVID Origin Story

Who is Robert Malone • 14 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Pandemic response Public Health Disinformation International relations Government Policy
  1. The World Health Organization (WHO) has been criticized for not fully investigating the possibility that COVID-19 came from a lab and for primarily focusing on natural origins.
  2. A report by the WHO seems to ignore key questions about China's actions and gain-of-function research related to COVID-19 origins, creating concerns about disinformation and bias.
  3. There are calls for the U.S. to withdraw funding from the WHO, as many believe it no longer serves its original purpose of protecting global health objectively.

President

Venture Prose • 539 implied HN points • 05 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Economic Policy
  1. Being a president comes with immense challenges like managing debt, dealing with administrative issues, and navigating societal tensions.
  2. To make a country like France attractive, competitive, and profitable, leaders need to focus on positive impact, simplicity in implementation, and clear accountability.
  3. France has the potential to excel in areas like nuclear energy, artificial intelligence, agriculture, and education, but effective automation and addressing system abuse are essential for profitability.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 31.01.2025

steigan.no • 9 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Public Policy Political Commentary International relations
  1. Arendal is facing a financial crisis because a battery company, Morrow, has delayed its plans despite receiving a large government loan. This has left the local government struggling to cover expenses created by this project.
  2. Tulsi Gabbard spoke out about past U.S. support for Al-Qaida in Syria, highlighting concerns about American foreign policy and its consequences. She brought attention to a covert CIA operation that armed extremist groups, stirring debate on national security.
  3. The political situation in Norway is changing as the Center Party has left the government due to disagreements over EU directives. This move could impact their voter support and may lead to more discussions about Norway's relationship with the EU.

American AI Dominance

Via Appia • 4 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics AI Policy National Strategy International relations Security Issues
  1. The U.S. needs a clear and positive vision to maintain its leadership in AI, especially in competition with China. Without a solid plan, relying only on defensive measures won't be enough.
  2. Export controls are important for national security, but they won't completely stop China's progress in AI. The U.S. must be proactive and not become complacent in its efforts.
  3. Creating a supportive environment for AI talent, investment, and innovation is essential. This includes developing a federal framework that attracts the best resources while ensuring safe research practices.

BRICS bloc is adding members, planning new currency to challenge US dollar

Geopolitical Economy Report • 598 implied HN points • 06 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Global Economy BRICS
  1. BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) are expanding and gaining economic and political influence globally.
  2. BRICS members are considering creating a new global reserve currency to challenge the dominance of the US dollar.
  3. The BRICS economies collectively represent a significant share of the global economy, with China contributing the highest share.

Xi on financial development; Premier Li's Davos speech; MSS on Taiwan; Spring Festival travel

Sinocism • 334 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics China Taiwan Economy International relations
  1. Xi Jinping emphasizes strong financial development based on solid economic foundation and key core financial elements.
  2. Annual seminar for provincial and ministerial-level cadres focuses on promoting high-quality financial development.
  3. Efforts to accelerate the construction of a modern financial system with Chinese characteristics are crucial for building a strong financial nation.

Fentanyl Crossing in "Vaginal Cavities and Rectums"

CrashOut by Ioan Grillo • 432 implied HN points • 05 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Border Security Drug Trafficking International relations Opioid Crisis
  1. Cartels recruit young U.S. citizens near the border as 'body carriers' to smuggle fentanyl in hidden body cavities.
  2. Fentanyl smuggling through body carriers is a growing problem, with significant amounts being brought illegally into the United States.
  3. Social media platforms like Instagram are being used by cartels to entice and recruit young individuals to smuggle dangerous drugs.

The Asia Century

Diane Francis • 579 implied HN points • 25 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Economic Policy
  1. The main competition in geopolitics is between the U.S. and China, with some experts predicting a return to an Asia-centered world economy. This means that countries like China and India might regain their historical economic dominance.
  2. China still has strong economic momentum, but its growth may face challenges due to increased competition and internal issues like high youth unemployment and economic mismanagement.
  3. Regions like ASEAN are rising in importance and could offer new economic opportunities, as they are already a major trading partner with the West and have diverse economies.

In Africa, Russia is playing the West like a fiddle

An Africanist Perspective • 573 implied HN points • 09 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Global South Sovereignty Foreign Policy International relations
  1. Russia's influence in Africa is hyped up in Western media compared to its actual economic and military ties with African states.
  2. African states respond to Russia based on their specific interests and not as puppets, often driven by the desire to access resources at lower costs, especially amidst economic constraints.
  3. African nations should be cautious not to overly rely on Russia militarily or economically, aiming to prioritize domestic sovereignty and economic growth by carefully considering policy decisions and avoid getting deeply entwined with Russia.

Are North Korean Troops Fighting for Russia a Sign of "Desperation"?

Phillips’s Newsletter • 86 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Military Affairs Geopolitics Conflict Studies National Security
  1. North Korean troops are now confirmed to be fighting for Russia in Ukraine. This development shows the lengths Russia is going to in order to sustain its military efforts.
  2. While Ukraine’s allies seem uncertain about how to best support them, Putin is making bold moves, like bringing in North Koreans, to try and gain an advantage.
  3. Putin’s decisions can often backfire. For instance, his direct attacks in the Kharkiv offensive were seen as strategic mistakes that did not pay off.

Answering your questions

Comment is Freed • 64 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Parties Policy Democracy International relations
  1. The Republican party seems to have shifted away from traditional establishment figures, with MAGA and Trump influencing their direction. Future candidates may be more conventional but still lean to the right.
  2. Democrats are facing challenges with key voter demographics, especially Latino men, and they might need to nominate someone who can connect with these groups in future elections.
  3. Both the US and UK are dealing with the implications of Trump's influence on politics, particularly regarding relationships with Europe and international cooperation.

US admits weather pushed Chinese balloon off course, US shot down hobbyists' $12 balloon in $2M missile attack

Geopolitical Economy Report • 637 implied HN points • 19 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Military Diplomacy Espionage
  1. US officials acknowledged the Chinese balloon they shot down was likely blown off course by unexpected weather.
  2. The US Air Force spent roughly $2 million using missiles to destroy a $12 hobbyist balloon, causing unnecessary expenditure.
  3. US intelligence officials later admitted that the Chinese balloon may have been diverted off course by weather, leading to a potential misunderstanding and an unnecessary military response.

The global competition between exit- and voice-based legitimacy

Wyclif's Dust • 1073 implied HN points • 10 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Global politics can be seen as a competition between democracy and exit-based legitimacy.
  2. Exit-based legitimacy is about the choices individuals make in selecting their rulers or locations.
  3. The rise of exit-based legitimacy is impacting international relations, including attracting skilled immigrants and signaling power on the global stage.

Ukraine's Zelensky admits he sabotaged Minsk peace deal with Russia, West blocked negotiations

Geopolitical Economy Report • 637 implied HN points • 12 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict resolution Diplomacy
  1. Ukraine's Zelensky admitted to sabotaging the Minsk peace deal with Russia, using it to prepare for war instead of implementing it as agreed.
  2. The West, including former Israeli Prime Minister Bennett, has been reported to have blocked peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, favoring escalations over peace talks.
  3. Prior to Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the West rejected Moscow's demands for written security guarantees, sparking tensions and contributing to the conflict.

I've Got Hazel On My Mind.

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 30 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Strategy International relations Political Analysis Geopolitics
  1. The U.S. is struggling to maintain its global power and influence, especially after recent military moves in Syria. Many believe these actions are more of a bluff than a real strategy.
  2. Syria's leadership is seen as having outsmarted the U.S. and avoided additional bloodshed by strategically retreating from conflict with their military. This retreat highlights the complicated dynamics between the U.S., Russia, and Iran.
  3. With U.S. military recruitment dropping and challenges in fighting through allies, there is concern that America's military strength is weakening and it might lose its standing in international relations.

Poland's Alarm

Diane Francis • 919 implied HN points • 20 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Military International relations Security European Politics
  1. Poland is increasing its military to protect against Russian threats, wanting to lead Europe in security efforts. This shows Poland's strong belief in standing up to aggressors.
  2. European leaders need to pay attention to warnings about rising threats from Russia and China. If they ignore these problems, it could lead to bigger issues for the whole continent.
  3. There is a need for unity among European countries to ensure their security. Smaller nations are stepping up while larger ones like Germany and France may not be doing enough.

Eye on Eurasia Special Report: The Ukraine Battlelab

Glen’s Substack • 19 implied HN points • 06 Sep 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict analysis Geopolitics
  1. Global instability is on the rise because various authoritarian countries are backing Russia, which could lead to more conflicts.
  2. The war has shown how crucial technology is in modern battles, especially with drones and cyber warfare, and the U.S. needs to improve its defense systems against Russian capabilities.
  3. Peace is fragile now, as many countries have the ability and willingness to attack each other, highlighting the importance of keeping arms treaties and agreements.

'World War 3 has already started' between US and Russia/China, argues French scholar

Geopolitical Economy Report • 697 implied HN points • 15 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Global Economy Military conflict Foreign Policy
  1. French scholar Emmanuel Todd argues that World War III has begun between the US and Russia/China due to the Ukraine proxy war.
  2. Todd points out that Russia's resilience against Western sanctions challenges the American imperial system and its hold on Europe.
  3. Todd criticizes the overreliance on GDP as a metric, highlighting the adaptive capacity of the Russian economy due to a significant role for the state compared to the US neoliberal economic model.