The hottest International relations Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

Putin's Dark Prince

Diane Francis • 519 implied HN points • 09 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Yevgeny Prigozhin is a strong contender to succeed Putin because he controls the Wagner Group and has gained wealth during the war. He’s known for being close to Putin and has military influence, which sets him apart from other political figures.
  2. Prigozhin's Wagner Group has been involved in brutal actions, including recruiting prisoners to fight in Ukraine and executing deserters. This shows how ruthless and powerful his group is within Russia's conflict landscape.
  3. After Putin, Russia might face a chaotic power struggle with various factions vying for control. This could lead to political infighting and disintegration, similar to past historical events in Russian history.

Retaliatory Tariffs

David Friedman’s Substack • 260 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Retaliatory tariffs are taxes on imports that match the tariffs a country imposes on exports. They aim to make both countries reconsider their tariff policies.
  2. If one country sets high tariffs, the other may respond with corresponding tariffs, which might lead to both countries lowering their tariffs for mutual benefit.
  3. The idea of reciprocal tariffs can help simplify trade negotiations, but it can also create loopholes where countries find ways to keep protections in place without directly using tariffs.

More Mafia State Alignment and Merz Declares Independence

Phillips’s Newsletter • 250 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The USA is changing its stance and is now aligning more with Russia, moving away from support for Ukraine. This shift is alarming because it goes against earlier views that blamed Russia for the invasion.
  2. Friedrich Merz, the leader of Germany's CDU party, talked about Europe needing to become more independent from the USA for its security. He believes Europe should work on its own defense capabilities.
  3. Merz’s victory in Germany’s elections might signal a big change in European politics. If he pushes for closer unity in Europe, it could really reshape how Europe deals with challenges from both the USA and Russia.

Peak American Empire

Philoinvestor • 216 implied HN points • 25 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The dominance of the US dollar is at risk due to changing global dynamics and potential shifts away from the Petrodollar Agreement.
  2. The US military's extensive expenditure is becoming unsustainable in the face of rising global competition and economic changes.
  3. The world is transitioning towards a multipolar order with increased conflict and alternative power structures, marking a decline in traditional American hegemony.
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Safe Terrain

Thinking about... • 324 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. There is a project called Safe Terrain that aims to clear Ukrainian lands of dangerous mines using robots. This helps keep people safe and allows them to go back home.
  2. De-mining is very risky for humans, so using robots for this job is a safer solution. The project needs about $10,000 more to fund thirty robotic platforms for this purpose.
  3. Support from the public can make a big difference for this project. Donating or sharing the message can help keep Ukrainians safe and support their return to normal life.

& We Are Live Over at the "Milken Review", with: Chickens Coming Home to Roost?: The Perils of Deglobalization

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 276 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Countries are starting to use their market power for political reasons, which can hurt globalization. This means that economic decisions are becoming more political.
  2. The level of globalization has been changing a lot, and even though it dipped during the pandemic, it has started to recover. Still, many people are concerned about the risks of deglobalization.
  3. Reducing global connections might lead to higher prices and less innovation. The goal now seems to be working with other countries while being careful about becoming too dependent.

THB 2025 Predictions

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 304 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The post raises ten questions about what might happen in 2025, covering various topics like politics and sports. It's a fun way to think about the future and invite readers to share their predictions.
  2. One question asks which leaders from the G7 countries will still be in power next year. This suggests interest in global politics and leadership stability.
  3. The author encourages readers to comment with their thoughts and predictions. The best predictions can win a lifetime subscription, making it interactive and engaging.

An Interview With Andriy Zagorodnyuk

Phillips’s Newsletter • 128 implied HN points • 26 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Ukraine plans to win the war by using smart strategies and new technologies instead of getting stuck in long fights with Russia. They want to build up their state and economy while still defending against threats.
  2. Drones and unmanned systems are changing how wars are fought. Ukraine needs to adapt quickly to these technologies to keep up with Russia and gain an advantage in the conflict.
  3. European support is crucial for Ukraine, especially in getting advanced military supplies. Maintaining a good relationship with the US is also important for securing needed resources to defend against Russia.

The Captagon Edition

Why is this interesting? • 361 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  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.

Putin’s Narrative Power

Comment is Freed • 117 implied HN points • 06 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Vladimir Putin continues the war in Ukraine despite not achieving his goals. His stubbornness is driven by a need to avoid humiliation.
  2. Russia's military and political objectives are unrealistic, as they require a neutralized Ukraine, but they are far from reaching them.
  3. Even with some territorial gains, Russia occupies less land now than at the start of the war, and Ukraine has grown stronger and more prepared for defense.

Our First Trump 2.0 Test (and How to Pass It)

Nonzero Newsletter • 372 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Many Republicans and Democrats change their views on election fairness based on whether their side wins. This shows how closely tied our beliefs are to our political outcomes.
  2. The Biden administration is still providing military aid to Israel even though they didn't meet certain requirements. This decision suggests a complex relationship between the U.S. and Israel, despite past expectations for accountability.
  3. Top AI companies are struggling to create more advanced models. There are concerns that they might be running out of high-quality training data, which could slow down progress in AI development.

Are We Inching toward World War III?

Nonzero Newsletter • 395 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. North Korean troops are now involved in the Ukraine war on Russia's side. This could increase tensions and lead to wider conflict if other countries respond.
  2. A new AI development allows chatbots to interact with computers like humans, but it's still not perfect. This could change how we use AI in everyday tasks.
  3. Kamala Harris is getting support from former congresswoman Liz Cheney, raising questions about her foreign policy direction. This might upset some progressive voters.

Iran, Israel, USA and World War 3 | Chris Hedges | UNAPOLOGETIC

The Chris Hedges Report • 125 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The conflict between Israel and Iran could have serious consequences, including the risk of drawing the USA into a larger war.
  2. There are concerns about whether the shifting priorities of Israel and the Pentagon are genuine or just a cover for ongoing issues in the region.
  3. The actions of Arab states in response to the situation may lead to negative consequences for them in the future.

There Was No Trump Pivot Towards Ukraine

Phillips’s Newsletter • 92 implied HN points • 07 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. There has not been a genuine shift in Trump's support for Ukraine against Russia, despite claims. He has continued to show favor towards Putin instead.
  2. Promised sanctions against Russia were put off and may not have the intended impact. This raises concerns about real consequences for Putin's actions.
  3. Some experts and lawmakers mistakenly believed Trump had changed his stance, but recent actions suggest he is still protecting Russian interests.

Biden’s Legacy Is a New Cold War

Nonzero Newsletter • 338 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Bipartisan support in Congress is now framing China as the main enemy of the U.S. This shift has led to new laws that limit American cooperation with Chinese entities.
  2. Biden has taken a strong stance against China, continuing and intensifying policies started by Trump. This has solidified a consensus that sees China as a major threat.
  3. The growing tension between the U.S. and China is often overlooked, especially compared to conflicts in Europe. However, Biden's actions are key to understanding this new cold war dynamic.

See the World Accurately

Interconnected • 354 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Seeing the world accurately is important for investors; it's easy to get lost in wishful thinking. Understanding reality helps make better decisions.
  2. Trump and Obama had similar strategies in their electoral victories, but they aim to govern differently, with Obama favoring institutions and Trump challenging them. This difference is crucial for the political landscape.
  3. China's economic policies are largely based on internal issues, not influenced by US elections. Their approach to managing the economy is quite different and focuses more on state control and gradual adjustments.

Incredible India

Diane Francis • 479 implied HN points • 19 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. India has recently surpassed China as the most populous nation and is experiencing rapid economic growth. It's now the fifth-largest economy, moving towards becoming the third-largest by 2030.
  2. The government has introduced biometric ID cards for citizens, which help people access many services efficiently. This has reduced corruption in aid transfers, benefiting the poorest citizens.
  3. India's geopolitical influence is growing, as it balances relationships with many global powers. With its economic strength and involvement in groups like the G20, India is becoming an important player on the world stage.

Elon Musk, undeterred by days of German political hyperventilation, continues to promote fascism and undermine democracy by tweeting things and scheduling interviews with people

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 295 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Elon Musk is facing criticism in Germany for his tweets that some view as undermining democracy. Many people are particularly concerned about his support for a far-right political party called Alternative für Deutschland.
  2. German politicians and journalists are reacting strongly against Musk's comments. They are worried that his influence could disrupt democratic processes in the country.
  3. There are calls from German leaders for Musk to stop interfering in their political affairs. They emphasize the importance of protecting democracy and the need for responsible communication from influential figures.

Putin's Recession

Diane Francis • 499 implied HN points • 05 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The war between Russia and Ukraine is causing major economic problems worldwide, including inflation and slow growth. It's clear that the conflict is not ending soon and will have lasting effects.
  2. Economic forecasts for 2023 are not looking good, with many experts predicting recessions in Europe and slow growth globally. Despite this, some polls show that many people are still hopeful for improvement compared to last year.
  3. There are rising tensions worldwide, with countries like the US and NATO increasing military spending. Meanwhile, there's a chance for stronger unity in Europe against threats, particularly from Russia.

Three Globalisations and a Geopolitical Game of Chinese Weather Checkers

Agribusiness Matters • 98 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Agribusinesses are adapting to a new era of 'strategic capitalism', with a focus on geopolitical maneuvers.
  2. Countries like India and China are enhancing food security through measures like launching procurement portals and diversifying import sources for pulses.
  3. China's geopolitical hunger games involve tactics like weather modification, river water obstruction, and artificial islands to gain a strategic advantage.

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.

Top Links 593 How tariffs on imports from Mexico would hurt the US. Chinese v. Indian education. The rare whiskey bubble bursts & the danger of melting permafrost.

Chartbook • 300 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Tariffs on imports from Mexico could lead to negative effects for the US economy, as they might raise prices and reduce access to goods.
  2. There is an ongoing comparison between the education systems of China and India, highlighting their differences and impacts on global development.
  3. The rare whiskey market is experiencing a decline, which shows the risks of investment in specialized products, along with concerns about climate change affecting permafrost.

Is The U.S. Going to War with Iran?

OK Doomer • 126 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Trump has threatened to assassinate Iran's Supreme Leader, marking a significant shift in U.S. rhetoric towards Iran.
  2. Despite prior claims that Iran wasn't close to making nuclear weapons, Trump is now insisting they are very near to having them.
  3. Trump is no longer seeking negotiations with Iran, instead demanding their unconditional surrender.

Top Links 580 How Bejing took over in Hong Kong. The dark tanker fleet off Malaysia. Potato collusion & freeing hermit crabs from plastic.

Chartbook • 314 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Beijing's influence in Hong Kong has grown significantly, leading to a shift in control over its financial hub. This change impacts how the West interacts with Hong Kong's economy.
  2. There are dark tanker fleets off Malaysia, which implies issues related to shipping and potentially illegal activities. It raises questions about maritime security and trade.
  3. Interesting stories include 'potato collusion' and efforts to free hermit crabs from plastic, highlighting different aspects of culture and environmental issues. These topics show how diverse and quirky news can be.

Biden and Netanyahu’s endless war for US-Israeli supremacy

Aaron Mate • 392 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The US and Israeli governments are working together to maintain their power in the Middle East. They support actions that weaken groups like Hezbollah and Iran to keep control.
  2. Recent conflicts, like the violence in Gaza and Lebanon, are being used by Israel to push forward aggressive policies. The US backs Israel's military actions, seeing it as a way to reshape the region.
  3. There are signs of internal disagreement within the US government about the strategy in the Middle East. Some officials worry that the current approach could lead to more overall conflict.

Top Links 536 The crisis in Cuba. Europe's dependence on the USA. The failure of intelligence in Ukraine & from Marx to Baumol to Butler.

Chartbook • 371 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Cuba is facing a significant crisis, which could impact its people and economy.
  2. Europe relies heavily on the USA, affecting its political and economic decisions.
  3. There have been failures in intelligence regarding the situation in Ukraine, showing gaps in understanding global issues.

我的最新专栏的中文翻译：为什么中国隐蔽战线的最高机构不再隐蔽？

Wang Xiangwei's Thought of the Day on China • 98 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The Ministry of State Security in China, once shrouded in secrecy, is now stepping into the public eye due to a shift in focus towards national security.
  2. The current Minister of State Security, Chen Yixin, has been instrumental in the department's increased visibility and public presence.
  3. The Chinese leadership is emphasizing Xi Jinping's ideology on national security, adding it as a new pillar to consolidate his political theory.

Russia's Refusenik Revolution

Diane Francis • 619 implied HN points • 06 Oct 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. A large number of Russians are leaving the country to avoid military service, marking a significant protest against the government. This mass migration is seen as a strong sign of discontent with the current regime.
  2. Prominent figures, like celebrities and cultural leaders, are publicly opposing the government and the war. Their statements are resonating with many people, pushing them to express their frustrations even more.
  3. There's growing criticism within Russia's military and political ranks, suggesting a potential shift in power. As issues worsen, this unrest may lead to serious changes in leadership or even a revolution against Putin.

Russia's Armaggedon-ism

Diane Francis • 599 implied HN points • 17 Oct 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Russia's use of nuclear threats has mostly backfired, making Ukraine more determined and leading to increased support for military aid from the West.
  2. Despite claiming nuclear readiness, Russia has not prepared its military for actual nuclear deployment, showing that these threats are mainly for intimidation.
  3. The war has led to a stronger alliance among Western nations and a shift in Putin's strategy towards recruiting more troops instead of relying on nuclear options.

No One Wants War. Everyone Wants War.

antoniomelonio • 246 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Many people act like they don't want war, but deep down, some crave the chaos and excitement it brings. War can feel like a thrilling action movie where there are heroes and villains.
  2. War is often used as a tool by those in power to distract the public from real issues. It unites people under a common cause, allowing leaders to maintain control and profits.
  3. Even in peaceful times, there's a restless feeling among people. This boredom can lead to the desire for conflict, which simplifies complex problems into a fight between 'us' and 'them.'

Israel Assassination Backfires (and Other Mideast Updates)

Nonzero Newsletter • 384 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Israel's assassination of a Hamas leader led to a more radical leadership taking over, resulting in a rise in suicide attacks against Israel again.
  2. Kamala Harris called Iran the biggest threat to the U.S., which some experts worry could lead to more conflict between the U.S. and Iran.
  3. Geoffrey Hinton, known as the 'Godfather of AI,' recently won a Nobel Prize for his work in AI, highlighting concerns about uncontrolled AI development.

Into the Bunker

Pieter’s Newsletter • 179 implied HN points • 20 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Evidence shows Hamas using a hospital for combat operations, posing moral questions about multinational organizations' awareness and response.
  2. Amidst tragedy, some premature babies were evacuated to safety in Egypt from the crisis at the al-Shifa hospital.
  3. Issues of sexual abuse, rape, and denial tied to October 7 attacks highlight the complexities involved in dealing with Hamas, with discussions of potential hostage deals and extreme determination to end the conflict.

China's Ticking Time Bomb

Diane Francis • 679 implied HN points • 25 Aug 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. China is facing a huge economic crisis with a massive debt burden. Many people can't pay for their homes, and this is leading to protests and bank failures.
  2. The real estate market in China has really struggled, causing a lot of social unrest. People feel they can no longer rely on owning property to secure their financial future.
  3. China's investments in other countries are in trouble, creating a global financial risk. This situation might lead to a loss of influence and potential instability within China itself.

Russia: A Terrorist State

Diane Francis • 619 implied HN points • 29 Sep 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Russia is accused of being a terrorist state due to its actions in Ukraine and against European energy infrastructure. This has led to calls for it to be designated a state sponsor of terrorism.
  2. The sabotage of gas pipelines has heightened tensions in Europe, causing market disturbances and urgency in securing alternative energy supplies as winter approaches.
  3. There's growing concern about Russian citizens fleeing mobilization, as some may pose security risks in Europe, highlighting the need for vigilance among European nations.

($) P(Grand Bargain) = 55%

Interconnected • 77 implied HN points • 12 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The US and China are in talks to pause tariffs, which could lead to a big trade deal between them. This pause is like a dramatic buildup to a finale in a reality show.
  2. Trump's decision to wait until the last moment to announce the tariff pause shows he wants to make a big impact. It’s all part of the ongoing trade negotiations between the two countries.
  3. The idea of a 'grand bargain' suggests that a major agreement could resolve current tensions. Many are watching closely to see how this will play out.

Putin's Altar Boy

Diane Francis • 499 implied HN points • 12 Dec 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Ukraine is taking strong action against churches and clergy linked to Russia. They are banning and sanctioning those who support Russian beliefs.
  2. Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church has backed the war against Ukraine and has significant wealth. His actions and rhetoric have drawn criticism from many, even within the church.
  3. There is a divide in the Orthodox Church due to Kirill's support for Russia. Many clergy feel he should be held accountable for his support of violence and war.

There's Been No Gaza Sea Change.

JoeWrote • 90 implied HN points • 30 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. There hasn’t been a real shift in how political leaders view the Gaza situation. They condemn starvation but don't address Israel's role in it.
  2. Many political figures are trying to save their reputations rather than genuinely help the people of Gaza. They only speak up now because they feel pressure, not because they care about what’s happening.
  3. Accountability is key to making real change. Leaders need to face the consequences for their actions to prevent further suffering in Gaza.

The Consequences Of Israel's Hegemony

The Weekly Dish • 107 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The two-state solution for Israel and Palestine is no longer a viable option. The current situation seems to solidify the dominance of one group over the other.
  2. Settlement expansions in contested areas are increasing rapidly. This growth can lead to more tensions and conflicts between communities.
  3. The ongoing struggles in the region show the importance of dialogue and resolution. Without proper communication, the cycle of violence may continue.