The hottest International relations Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

Germany's World War III

Diane Francis • 659 implied HN points • 23 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Germany is hesitating to send military help to Ukraine, especially with tanks. Many believe this delay is tied to Germany's historical guilt from World War II.
  2. Germany's political decisions have made the situation worse, as they prioritize their own concerns over supporting Ukraine and the alliance against Russia.
  3. The need for Ukraine to regain its territory, especially Crimea, is urgent, and some leaders argue that supporting Ukraine more decisively can help democracy and stability in the region.

Genocide: The New Normal

The Chris Hedges Report • 399 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The ongoing violence in Gaza is seen as a methodical effort to eliminate the Palestinian population and solidify Israeli control over the region.
  2. The U.S. government has significantly increased military aid to Israel, reflecting a disregard for international laws and the consequences of war.
  3. Acts of violence and resistance are part of a cycle that can lead to more intense conflicts, suggesting that violence breeds more violence.

Chris Hedges: Trump, Palestine, Iran & the Collapse of U.S. Media.

The Chris Hedges Report • 130 implied HN points • 27 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Trump's rise shows deeper issues in U.S. politics that need to be understood. It’s important to look beyond just his leadership and discover what led to that moment.
  2. U.S. policies towards countries like Iran are often driven by hidden motives. Knowing these intentions helps us understand the bigger picture of international relations.
  3. The media landscape in the U.S. is changing and facing challenges. Recognizing these changes can help us think critically about the information we receive.

Brazil and Argentina preparing new Latin American currency to 'reduce reliance on US dollar'

Geopolitical Economy Report • 358 implied HN points • 24 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Brazil and Argentina are planning a new Latin American currency called the Sur to enhance regional trade and reduce reliance on the US dollar.
  2. The new currency proposal requires analysis of various factors like fiscal issues and economic size, with a cautious approach as it may take years to develop.
  3. The initiative stems from a shared desire to lessen dependence on the US dollar, driven by ideologically similar governments in Latin America.

Behavioural Geopolitics: How power changes people

Klement on Investing • 6 implied HN points • 04 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Power changes how people think: those with power rely more on fast, intuitive thinking and focus on core information, which helps quick decisions but makes them ignore peripheral details.
  2. Power brings downsides: it fuels overconfidence, reliance on personal experience, dehumanisation of subordinates, and a higher risk of corrupt or self‑serving behaviour, so unchecked power harms organisations.
  3. Who gets power often depends on perceived intelligence and social reputation rather than objective competence, and once in power people are seen as more competent, creating a self‑reinforcing cycle that makes governance and oversight essential.
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African Foreign Policy in a Multipolar Age

An Africanist Perspective • 376 implied HN points • 22 Dec 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Africa's growing population and demographic shift will increase its geopolitical importance in the future.
  2. African countries must focus on building strong states and state capacity to ensure physical safety, order, and effective regional cooperation.
  3. African leaders should be clear on their policy priorities, understand foreign actors' motivations, keep options open for partnerships, and promote healthy competition within Africa to advance the region's interests.

AI Geopolitics in the Age of Test-Time Compute w Chris Miller + Lennart Heim

ChinaTalk • 385 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🕹 Technology International relations
  1. Export controls on AI technology don't stop progress immediately, but they affect long-term access to necessary chips. Countries can still access older tech, keeping them competitive for a while.
  2. AI models require more compute power as they get better. This means countries need to invest substantially to support advanced AI systems, as even small changes in processing time can increase resource demands significantly.
  3. U.S. cloud providers might help monitor how AI chips are used abroad, which could both protect U.S. interests and promote responsible AI development. This strategy could help balance control with innovation.

Weekend Update#120: The US Changes Sides?

Phillips’s Newsletter • 334 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Trump is openly shifting to support Russia over Ukraine, changing the U.S. stance that previously backed Ukraine's defense. This change is concerning for European leaders who are now realizing the U.S. may not be a reliable ally.
  2. Europe needs to start thinking about its own security without relying on U.S. support. Some leaders are starting to call for a European army to protect themselves from threats like Russia.
  3. The recent U.S. policies have made it clear that Europe must adapt to a new reality where it can't depend on America as much. This could lead to Europe taking stronger control over its own defense and future.

China Isolates Russia

Diane Francis • 919 implied HN points • 15 Sep 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. China has distanced itself from Russia, especially after Putin's struggles in Ukraine. Xi Jinping assured Kazakhstan of support against potential Russian threats, showing he won't back Putin's aggressive moves.
  2. While China signed a partnership with Russia, it has not openly supported the war in Ukraine. Instead, China wants to keep good relations with Europe and the U.S., which means they won't provide military aid to Russia.
  3. Many Central Asian countries are growing closer to China while pulling away from Russia. As Russia's situation worsens, Beijing may look to expand its influence in regions previously dominated by Moscow.

BRICS or NATO? G20 or G77? Summits debate rapidly changing world order

Geopolitical Economy Report • 279 implied HN points • 24 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The changing world order is reflected in the rapid pace of international summits like BRICS, G20, G77, and the UN General Assembly.
  2. Russia's pivot towards the Far East, specifically in Vladivostok, showcases a strong focus on development and economic collaboration with Asian countries.
  3. De-dollarization and the use of e-currencies, such as blockchain mechanisms, are potential avenues for creating alternative payment systems within the global majority.

Why it doesn't pay to make predictions

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 16 implied HN points • 03 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Predictions often fail, so it's wiser not to make firm forecasts when information is limited.
  2. There is a genuine hope that Venezuela can be stabilized quickly and become democratic and prosperous, but the outcome is uncertain.
  3. Global events can be wildly surprising, and while dramatic scenarios are tempting to imagine, it's better to admit uncertainty than pretend to know the future.

Top Links 606 Trump wants the canal back. The cost of crime in LatAm. Economists at war & debating La Notta.

Chartbook • 386 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Trump is expressing a desire to regain control of the Panama Canal. This idea could stir up discussions about historical land control in the Americas.
  2. Crime costs in Latin America are significant and have a big impact on society and the economy. Understanding these costs is crucial for finding ways to improve safety and living conditions.
  3. There seems to be ongoing debates among economists about certain financial issues. These discussions can help us see different perspectives on economic policies and their effects.

Everything You Need To Know About the U.S. / Israeli War With Iran (w/ Alastair Crooke) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 142 implied HN points • 10 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The conflict between Israel, Iran, and the U.S. isn't finished yet, and future actions will deeply affect the Middle East and global economy.
  2. Israel's surprise attacks were planned carefully, using technology and strategies that can't easily be repeated, while Iran’s military readiness is now heightened.
  3. The U.S. and its allies face challenges in their approach to Iran, as aggressive tactics may push Iran towards developing nuclear weapons, contrary to their intentions.

Ukraine Conflict Monitor - 3 April – 9 April 2023 (Weekly update)

Ukraine Conflict Monitor • 275 implied HN points • 11 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Frontline in Ukraine remained mostly static last week with some tactical gains by Russians in certain areas and repelled attacks in others.
  2. Russian offensive potential in Bakhmut did not peak last week, while ground attacks near Avdiivka were pushed back.
  3. Belarusian Armed Forces conducting readiness checks and training, with no major changes seen in their military posture.

Ukraine Conflict Monitor - 22 May – 28 May (Weekly update)

Ukraine Conflict Monitor • 275 implied HN points • 29 May 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Frontline in Ukraine had minimal changes; Situation seemed stable but signs indicate a possible major Ukrainian push
  2. Russian forces did not advance in Kharkiv Oblast; Some unconfirmed gains made in Bilohorivka in Luhansk Oblast
  3. Russians did not change frontlines in Donetsk Oblast; Ukrainians may have progressed in Avdiivka; Wagner forces transferred responsibility to Donetsk People's Republic in Bakhmut

Russia Will Snap

Diane Francis • 879 implied HN points • 26 Sep 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Many Russians are fleeing the country because they fear being forced into the military. Reports suggest the government might draft many more than the announced amount.
  2. The Russian army is struggling with low morale and issues like alcoholism. This makes the army less effective and raises concerns about their ability to fight well.
  3. Putin's strategy of using less privileged groups for military service could backfire. It may cause more unrest among these populations and lead to greater opposition against the war.

Chartbook 216: Heroic periodization: histories of Bretton Woods & the "New Washington Consensus"

Chartbook • 1745 implied HN points • 29 May 23
🌍 World Politics 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.

Top Links 577 Smuggling oil. Bolivia's mounting crisis. Digging deeper for copper & art prices in the long run.

Chartbook • 429 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. There is an ongoing issue of oil smuggling, especially involving imports to China from Iran and Venezuela, where they are labeled as coming from Malaysia.
  2. Bolivia is experiencing a significant crisis that is impacting its stability and economy.
  3. There's a trend of exploring deeper insights into the long-term pricing of copper and art, indicating a shift in how these markets might evolve.

Why Israel Won’t Take the Win

Nonzero Newsletter • 519 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Israel has an opportunity to declare victory after the death of a key Hamas leader, which might allow for a ceasefire and de-escalation of conflict.
  2. The U.S. has sent troops and missile defense systems to Israel, but this support may encourage Israel to continue its aggressive actions rather than seek peace.
  3. There are concerns that U.S. military support for Israel could drag the U.S. into broader conflicts and worsen America's global reputation.

The Submission Chain

Thinking about... • 447 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Submission happens when people accept lies or narratives that aren't true, which can lead to a sense of division in politics. This creates a power dynamic where some feel they 'own' others by repeating these lies.
  2. There's a chain of submission that exists from Trump voters to Trump and then to leaders like Putin and Xi. This relationship suggests that the power structure affects how countries interact with each other, making America weaker.
  3. If the U.S. backs down on supporting Ukraine, it could embolden other countries like China. Supporting Ukraine is crucial not just for its sake but also for maintaining strength against potential threats globally.

The US Has Taken Sides--Against Democracy

Phillips’s Newsletter • 317 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Trump has shifted U.S. policy to blame Ukraine for the ongoing war with Russia. This shows a clear stance against democracy and freedom.
  2. His comments indicate that America is moving away from being a global defender of democratic values. This change has serious implications for countries that depend on U.S. support.
  3. Recognizing that this is the official U.S. government position is crucial. It reflects a broader issue within American politics, and not just Trump's individual beliefs.

Is Somalia turning the corner?

An Africanist Perspective • 296 implied HN points • 03 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. There is cause for cautious optimism in Somalia as book fairs in Mogadishu, a property boom, weakening of Al-Shabaab, and regional cooperation signal positive changes.
  2. Somalia has a complex history of conflicts and irredentist desires that have contributed to its state of instability since the 1970s.
  3. Ethiopia and Kenya have historically had conflicting interests in Somalia, aiming for a weak central government to serve their own security interests despite the need for peace and stability in the region.

Many Ukrainians Believed in Trump. Now They Feel Betrayed.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 301 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Many Ukrainians once admired Trump and felt hopeful about American support. Now, they feel let down and have even removed American flags from their uniforms.
  2. Odesa's historic Bristol Hotel was badly damaged in a recent Russian missile strike, showing the impact of the war on civilian life and culture.
  3. This destruction reflects a larger war not just on Ukraine but on its identity and heritage as well.

Gratitude to Ukraine (2024)

Thinking about... • 390 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. We owe a lot to Ukraine for their fight against Russian aggression. Their resistance has made the world a safer place and reduced the chances of major conflicts.
  2. Ukrainians remind us that freedom isn't just given to us; it's something we must work for and defend. Their struggle teaches us the real meaning of freedom and democracy.
  3. Ukrainians show incredible courage and perseverance in the face of war. Their strength and generosity, even during tough times, inspire us to appreciate our connections and responsibilities to each other.

Noah Smith on Trump 2.0 and Asia + Future of the New Tech Right

ChinaTalk • 340 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The tech right is becoming a powerful group within the Trump administration, focused on deregulation to improve the business environment in America.
  2. Nuclear weapons could greatly stabilize regions like East Asia, and countries like Japan and South Korea should consider developing their own for better security.
  3. Taiwan should leverage its tech industry to become a key supplier of defense products, like drones and batteries, to enhance its economic stability and defense against China.

Two Months

Pieter’s Newsletter • 219 implied HN points • 07 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The prediction of unspeakable sexual violence in a major news event.
  2. Hostages being considered collateral damage in a conflict scenario.
  3. The belief that a Palestinian state in Gaza is no longer viable due to recent events and political implications.

Is Bluesky Just as Bad as Twitter?

Nonzero Newsletter • 417 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Bluesky and Twitter may not be very different when it comes to spreading outrage. Both platforms create an environment that encourages people to engage more when they're angry.
  2. Social media can intensify our natural tendencies toward tribalism and outrage. Studies show that interactions like likes and shares can teach people to express more anger over time.
  3. The challenges with social media algorithms aren't just technical; they point to deeper issues in human nature. People often share content that reinforces their beliefs, which can amplify misinformation and conflict.

⚠ How disruptive would a Chinese invasion of Taiwan be?

Faster, Please! • 456 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. An invasion of Taiwan by China could disrupt global stability and economic growth. It might create fear and uncertainty, much like we saw in past wars.
  2. There's concern that the potential conflict could end the current positive economic trends we are experiencing, especially with advancements in technology and AI.
  3. Different possible scenarios of military action by China have been analyzed, showing various levels of impact on the economy. Understanding these scenarios can help us prepare for the future.

Europe Pushes Back

Comment is Freed • 101 implied HN points • 19 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Donald Trump's approach to peace talks is quite unpredictable and lacks consistency. His statements can change quickly, so it's hard to know what he truly thinks or plans.
  2. Unlike previous presidents who worked deeply on conflicts, Trump seems to focus more on making headlines rather than diving into the details. This could lead to agreements that are vague and hard to implement.
  3. European leaders feel the need to rally around Ukraine during these talks to ensure they have Trump’s support. They worry that Trump’s influence may pressure Ukraine into unfair agreements.

Soviet Ruins and China's Future

ChinaTalk • 474 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. China looks to the lessons of the Soviet Union to understand its own economic strategies and potential risks. By studying the past, they hope to avoid similar pitfalls in governance.
  2. The distribution of resources in an economy is crucial for success. If too much is spent on heavy industry and not enough on consumer goods, it can lead to dissatisfaction and inefficiencies.
  3. Khrushchev's time saw a shift in the Soviet mentality from military competition to economic competition with the West. This idea of competing systems is still relevant today, especially in how China views its place in the world.

Half-Baked Alaska

Comment is Freed • 103 implied HN points • 16 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The Alaska summit didn’t meet high expectations, as there were fears that Putin would manipulate Trump into a bad deal. However, nothing concrete was agreed upon, which means no immediate setbacks for Ukraine.
  2. While Trump described the meeting positively, Putin used it to portray himself as a peacemaker. This created a perception that he was gaining international favor, despite limited results.
  3. A shift in focus occurred from trying to achieve a ceasefire to discussing a long-term settlement while fighting continues. This change in approach could affect future peace talks.

Top Links 563 Trump and the world economy. Why the energy transition might be cheaper than we think. Protracted war in the Philippines.

Chartbook • 429 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Trump's decisions can greatly affect the world economy. It's important to understand how political actions influence global markets.
  2. Transitioning to clean energy might be more affordable than many believe. New technologies and strategies can help lower costs.
  3. The ongoing conflict in the Philippines is complex and has lasting implications. It shows how prolonged wars can affect both local and international stability.

Commentator

Castalia • 239 implied HN points • 24 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. In wartime, moral judgments become blurred as both sides commit terrible acts, making it difficult to assign blame and remember the suffering of civilians on all sides.
  2. The conflict in Israel/Palestine has led to a division in Western civic life, with people increasingly polarized in their views, often overlooking the human toll of the violence.
  3. Global conflicts, including the war in Ukraine and the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh, highlight a world fragmented by power struggles and shifting alliances, suggesting a troubling trend toward realpolitik over humanitarian concerns.

"There's no time like the present!"

Fisted by Foucault • 136 implied HN points • 08 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The US is still a dominant power in global politics, despite predictions of its decline. Many of its previous military efforts show that it has achieved important goals.
  2. Countries like Iran, which see themselves as revolutionary, often struggle to maintain that identity over time. They usually end up moderating their extreme positions as they focus on daily issues.
  3. Israel has acted rationally in its pursuit of security, backed by the strong support of the United States. This relationship allows Israel to operate without many checks on its behavior.

Zelensky Tour de Force

Diane Francis • 619 implied HN points • 02 Jan 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Zelensky delivered an emotional address that resonates with many. It encourages viewers to feel moved and connected to his message.
  2. The message is aimed at inspiring hope and resilience as we head into the new year. It highlights the importance of unity and strength during tough times.
  3. The acknowledgment of Zelensky as an exceptional leader shows admiration for his leadership qualities. It suggests that his efforts are making a significant impact.