The hottest International relations Substack posts right now

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Top World Politics Topics

Happy Holidays: America's Enemies Are Imploding

I Might Be Wrong • 10 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military International relations Conflict Terrorism
  1. Syria is now seeing a leadership change that many believe is an improvement over the past. People are surprised that the new group might actually be better than what was previously in charge.
  2. Hezbollah and Hamas, two major groups in the region, are facing serious setbacks. There's a feeling of relief as these groups become less powerful and more fearful.
  3. The situation with Iran's proxy groups, like the Houthis, is still tense. Their attempts to provoke Israel seem reckless and dangerous without solid backing.

Israel’s Trojan Horse

The Chris Hedges Report • 189 implied HN points • 18 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict Humanitarian Crisis Genocide International relations
  1. Israel is using the guise of aid and a 'temporary pier' as a Trojan Horse to expel Palestinians, not to alleviate the famine in Gaza.
  2. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is worsening due to Israel actively hindering aid operations and implementing restrictions that prevent essential supplies from reaching the population.
  3. The Biden administration's involvement in constructing the pier to aid Israel's agenda highlights the complicit role of the US in the ongoing genocide against Palestinians.

Incredible India

Diane Francis • 479 implied HN points • 19 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Economic Growth Geopolitics Social Issues
  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.

Putin's Recession

Diane Francis • 499 implied HN points • 05 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Conflict Economics Security 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.
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Three Globalisations and a Geopolitical Game of Chinese Weather Checkers

Agribusiness Matters • 98 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Geoengineering
  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.

Xi at Trump's inauguration? China likely still weighing options

Pekingnology • 52 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Political Analysis Bilateral Relations
  1. Trump invited Xi to his upcoming inauguration, marking a unique diplomatic gesture. It's not common for a U.S. president to invite a foreign leader to their inauguration.
  2. China is considering whether or not to attend. They might choose to send a representative instead of Xi himself to avoid potential risks and uncertainties.
  3. If China decides to accept the invitation, it could strengthen their relationship with the U.S. while also showing commitment to peaceful cooperation between the countries.

Israel Is Field-Testing Autonomous Weapons, Cops and Pre-Crime News, Congressional Trading Fun

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 55 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military Surveillance Law enforcement International relations
  1. Israel is using autonomous weapons that can operate without human control. This raises concerns about accountability for their actions.
  2. Weapons tested on Palestinians are being developed for global markets, increasing demand for Israeli military technology.
  3. There are troubling ties between police actions and corporate interests, highlighting how law enforcement can be used to serve business goals.

Labour needs to make the selfish case for foreign aid

Odds and Ends of History • 670 implied HN points • 04 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics Foreign Aid Soft Power Corruption International relations
  1. Labour should make the selfish case for foreign aid to appeal to people's self-interest and make it more politically viable.
  2. Talking about foreign aid in terms of soft power and global stability can help reframe its purpose and importance.
  3. Addressing corruption in foreign aid should focus on improving practices rather than using it as an argument against aid altogether.

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 China Security Government Policy 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 Political Movements Military Affairs Government Critique
  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 Geopolitics Military Strategy International relations Nuclear Issues Conflict resolution
  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.

Into the Bunker

Pieter’s Newsletter • 179 implied HN points • 20 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Middle East Conflict Terrorism 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 Economic Policy Geopolitical Issues Debt crisis
  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 Geopolitics Security Studies Terrorism
  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.

Peking Playbook 20241124

Pekingnology • 67 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Diplomacy Military Affairs China relations
  1. China's People's Liberation Army is focusing on military legal governance, encouraging its officers to read Xi Jinping's statements on this topic. They want to ensure the military follows the law properly.
  2. There will be new rules from the Chinese government about how internet algorithms work. The aim is to avoid showing too much of the same content and to protect workers in the gig economy.
  3. China has expanded its visa-free travel program to include 38 countries, making it easier for people to visit. This change is meant to boost tourism and improve international relationships.

The Chicoms are Coming! Quick, Close the "AI" Gap!

The Corbett Report • 16 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Security International relations Cybersecurity Public Policy Military Spending
  1. There is a growing concern about the 'AI gap' between the US and China, which is becoming a new focus for national security. People are worried that if the US doesn't catch up, it could lose its edge in technology.
  2. The idea of an 'AI gap' is likened to the old 'missile gap' scare from the Cold War. Both were used to create fear and justify increased spending on military and technology.
  3. Even though the 'AI gap' talk may feel exaggerated, the real dangers of AI technology, like autonomous weapons, shouldn't be overlooked. It's important to be aware of the genuine risks while questioning the motives behind the narratives.

Putin's Altar Boy

Diane Francis • 499 implied HN points • 12 Dec 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Religion War International relations Political Influence Military
  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.

China's Putin Problem

Diane Francis • 559 implied HN points • 27 Oct 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Diplomacy Conflict Economics
  1. China is trying to distance itself from Russia due to the negative impact of Putin's actions on its reputation and economy. Xi Jinping is making cautious moves to show he's not fully aligned with Moscow.
  2. A meeting between Xi and Biden could help improve China's international standing and address shared concerns about Russia's nuclear threats. It could also lead to better trade relationships for China.
  3. China faces serious domestic challenges, including economic downturns and issues with foreign investment. Xi needs to address these problems and find a way to mend fences with other nations.

Open Thread #29

Fisted by Foucault • 180 implied HN points • 05 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Policy International relations Government
  1. Vicki Nuland has submitted her resignation, a significant move due to her influential role in USA's Russia policy.
  2. Her resignation indicates a shift in USA's approach towards Ukraine and Russia, possibly signaling a move to assign Ukraine to Europe and focus on containing China.
  3. The resignation prompts discussions on the impact and reasons behind this shift in US foreign policy.

Taiwan's former parliamentary speaker proposes "separate jurisdictions, one sovereignty"

Pekingnology • 56 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict resolution Peace Studies Geopolitics Cross-strait relations
  1. A former Taiwanese leader suggests that Taiwan and mainland China can have separate governments but still share one sovereignty. He believes this could lead to better relations and peace.
  2. He emphasizes the importance of understanding each side's history and respecting each other's ways of life. This mutual respect is key to resolving tensions.
  3. The leader calls for more communication and collaboration between the two sides. He thinks that building trust can help improve the situation and create a brighter future.

Assad is finished

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 11 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Conflict Regime Change International relations Political Analysis
  1. It might not now or in coming mom or by now, not if it criminy worn on firing dow how if it might hight if it rock if it might on going on by go to go in or by go or go in or of go of doom or of yow or not, not on go, not if it might go, or might how on down for on cry for going not go now, go or of go to go to go not or by in to not or by go, yow, to going to rock on to go on or by to know, if
  2. Right now, it kind of thriving, with big hitting going on by now, going on might to worn by high on go or, do go or yow, how might high or do not, do  or go on going or of going on by, on rock or might go on or in with now, how to do, or to on, on now, or how to go down in now
  3. Right now, kind of to now, yow, to to rock on, to  comin' in to off it going on on or by rock on or not to in on to by to it now, to of not, on going to from going to go, or might go, to of going on to by know, high on to doin' or might on down, might to it

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 02.01.2025

steigan.no • 8 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Military Affairs Human Rights Elections Government Policies
  1. The situation in Ukraine is worsening, with key cities falling to Russian control. The Ukrainian military is struggling, and morale among the population is diminishing.
  2. Bill Gates is advocating for more vaccines in Uganda instead of addressing basic needs like food and clean water. This approach highlights ongoing debates about priorities in health interventions.
  3. The EU is increasing pressure on Hungary over rule-of-law issues, risking significant financial penalties. This move may symbolize broader conflicts between national sovereignty and EU policies.

Putin Challenges the West to a Duel

John’s Substack • 10 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Military Affairs International relations Conflict Studies Diplomacy
  1. Putin is seen as directly challenging Western countries, hinting at a serious conflict. This creates tension and uncertainty in international relations.
  2. There's a focus on the situation in Ukraine, highlighting ongoing concerns and unsettling discussions about war.
  3. The dialogue around these issues feels bleak, suggesting that problems are expected to persist into the future.

Putin's Two Chernobyls

Diane Francis • 619 implied HN points • 05 Sep 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Nuclear Issues International relations Energy Policy
  1. The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in Ukraine is at risk of a meltdown due to war tensions. This could lead to widespread radioactive contamination in Europe, similar to the Chernobyl disaster.
  2. Putin's actions are seen as a form of terrorism, using the nuclear plant as a weapon against Europe. By controlling the plant, he threatens European nations to gain leverage in negotiations.
  3. The global community is very concerned about the safety of nuclear plants in Ukraine. Countries like Japan and the US have called for Russia to return control of these facilities to Ukraine to avoid further disaster.

The Year of Failing To Understand.

Trying to Understand the World • 9 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict resolution International relations Political theory Geopolitics Military Strategy
  1. In 2024, the West struggled to understand global events, often failing to grasp the real reasons behind them. This gap in understanding is seen as a mix of ignorance and arrogance.
  2. There are deeper issues at play in conflicts, such as the role of religion and the nature of violence in different societies. These aspects often go unnoticed in western perspectives, leading to misinterpretations of motivations.
  3. As global dynamics shift, the West's old ways of thinking are becoming less effective. The next year could bring important changes that the West will need to face, potentially leading to new opportunities and understandings.

Who's Surprised By Trump's Hawkish Appointments?

Gideon's Substack • 21 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Political appointments Trump administration Republican party International relations
  1. Trump's new foreign policy team includes several individuals known for their hawkish views, indicating a potential aggressive stance in international relations.
  2. There is uncertainty about Trump's actual foreign policy direction, as his decisions may lack a clear strategy and could change unpredictably.
  3. While some argue Trump's unpredictability could deter threats, it also leads to confusion about America's true intentions and commitments on the global stage.

Kazakhstan Defies Vlad

Diane Francis • 679 implied HN points • 21 Jul 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Central Asia Diplomacy Energy Politics
  1. Kazakhstan is standing up to Russia and has openly criticized Putin's actions in Ukraine. This shows that Kazakhstan wants to assert its independence and build better ties with other countries.
  2. Kazakhstan is rich in resources like oil and uranium and is making plans to export its resources to Europe without relying on Russia. They are working on new pipelines to connect to European markets.
  3. The Kazakh leader has been reforming the country and moving closer to allies like Turkey and China. This shift could help Kazakhstan become a key player in Central Asia and beyond.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 01.01.2025

steigan.no • 8 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Military Affairs Conflict Studies Diplomatic Relations
  1. Biden has ordered more weapons to be sent to Ukraine in response to a major Russian attack. This decision came after Russia targeted Ukrainian energy infrastructure.
  2. Foreign jihadists have been appointed to senior positions in the new Syrian military. This includes members from various nationalities, indicating a shift in military leadership.
  3. Ukraine has ended its gas transit through Ukraine, raising concerns about energy problems in Europe. This decision could lead to higher energy costs for European countries that rely on this transit.

Star Wars

Diane Francis • 519 implied HN points • 31 Oct 22
🌍 World Politics International relations Military Affairs Geopolitics Cyber Warfare
  1. Space has become very important in modern warfare, with satellites playing key roles in communications and intelligence gathering. Countries like the US, Russia, and China are investing heavily in their space capabilities.
  2. Russia threatened to target satellites like Elon Musk's Starlink that help Ukraine in its war effort, showing how conflicts are reaching into outer space. The US warned that attacks on these satellites would bring consequences.
  3. There is concern about the increasing weaponization of space. While full-blown space battles are unlikely soon, countries are developing technologies that could allow them to act aggressively in space.

The day the world should have changed

The Raven • 176 implied HN points • 20 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics Nuclear Weapons International relations Military Spending
  1. Humanity missed the opportunity to shift away from power-based relations on the day of the Trinity test in 1945.
  2. Efforts for international nuclear control failed post-Trinity test, leading to modern nuclear threats and arms races.
  3. Creating a peaceful world requires moving beyond power dynamics to empathy and compassion in all aspects of society.

China accuses the US of developing weapons targeting the Chinese race

Wenhao’s news blog • 176 implied HN points • 12 May 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics National Security Conspiracy Theories International relations
  1. China accuses the US of developing genetically engineered weapons targeting specific races, including Chinese, European, and Middle Eastern
  2. The accusation is based on an old Chinese state media article from 20 years ago, not recent revelations by the Wall Street Journal as claimed
  3. Activist Tong Zeng has been linking various events, such as the SARS outbreak and Covid-19 pandemic, to alleged US biological warfare activities

王向偉：台海開戰？中美急需達成新共識 驅散戰爭陰霾

Wang Xiangwei's Thought of the Day on China • 176 implied HN points • 11 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Conflicts Diplomacy Leadership
  1. China is intensifying military preparations to potentially attack Taiwan, raising concerns internationally.
  2. It is important for Taiwan's future leaders to avoid policies or actions seen as promoting independence to prevent conflict in the Taiwan Strait.
  3. Reaching a new consensus between China and the U.S. on the Taiwan issue is crucial to avoid war and dispel the shadow of conflict.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 21.01.2025

steigan.no • 4 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Military Policy Health Policy Elections
  1. Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin have expressed a willingness to discuss peace in Ukraine. This signals a potential shift in U.S.-Russia relations under Trump's leadership.
  2. Trump has pulled the U.S. out of the World Health Organization and the Paris Climate Agreement again. This move emphasizes a significant change in U.S. foreign policy and health approaches.
  3. There are rising concerns about the dangers of artificial intelligence, especially in military applications. Experts warn that without proper regulations, AI could pose serious risks to humanity.

November 10, 2024

Letters from an American • 19 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History War history International relations
  1. Armistice Day, later known as Veterans Day, began in 1918 to honor the end of World War I. It aimed to remember the sacrifices made by soldiers for peace.
  2. Despite the hope that World War I would be the 'war to end all wars', conflicts continued, leading to the establishment of global organizations like the United Nations to promote peace.
  3. The U.S. changed Armistice Day to Veterans Day in 1954 to honor all veterans. The focus remains on remembering their sacrifices and working toward lasting peace.

Giving Thanks to the Judge

John’s Substack • 15 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Media Criticism Political Commentary Judicial system International relations
  1. Trump's foreign policy decisions seem different from his campaign promises, especially regarding the Ukraine war.
  2. There's ongoing discussion about Israel's issues and claims of anti-Semitism in American institutions.
  3. The Judge's podcast offers an alternative perspective to mainstream media, which is seen as failing the public recently.

How Not To Cancel Russia

Castalia • 219 implied HN points • 30 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship War Social Issues International relations
  1. It's important to avoid blaming all Russians for their government's actions. Just like in other countries, people can have different views and shouldn't be judged solely based on their nationality.
  2. There are big debates about cultural boycotts and canceling works set in Russia. Self-censorship by authors can lead to extreme positions that don't really help anyone.
  3. Even during wartime, we should recognize individual bravery and the complexity of people's identities. Not every Russian supports the war and we need to see beyond stereotypes.

Decouple federal government from nation-states

The Novelleist • 260 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Federal Government Autonomy International relations
  1. Decouple federal government from nation-states to allow city-states to join federal governments as needed.
  2. Consider granting more power to smaller governments like states and cities for autonomy.
  3. Explore the idea of dividing the world into city-states and offering different layers of government for city-states to join as per choice.