The hottest International relations Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

US gov't body plots to break up Russia in name of 'decolonization'

Geopolitical Economy Report • 358 implied HN points • 25 Jun 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The US government's Helsinki Commission held a Congressional briefing to discuss breaking up Russia in the name of decolonization.
  2. Participants at the briefing proposed supporting separatist movements within Russia and advocated for the independence of regions like Chechnya, Tatarstan, Dagestan, and Circassia.
  3. The briefing reflects a trend of using left-wing rhetoric to advance imperial interests by the US government, similar to other instances where progressive themes have been co-opted for political motives.

Rats Jump Ship

Diane Francis • 679 implied HN points • 10 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. No agreement was reached in the meeting between Ukraine and Russia, which was a disappointment. This shows that tensions are still high and negotiations are tough.
  2. Russia seems to have the advantage in this situation, as they are demanding complete surrender from Ukraine. This makes it harder for Ukraine to negotiate a better outcome.
  3. Turkey is trying to help by being a mediator, but the outcome of the talks doesn't look promising given the circumstances. It's a complicated situation for everyone involved.

In Ukraine, top US official admits that “success” meant “suffering”

Aaron Mate • 174 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. A top US official acknowledged that the term 'success' in Ukraine often means more suffering for the people involved. It's a harsh truth about the reality of war.
  2. The Biden administration and Kyiv are facing tough decisions about whether to engage in diplomatic talks or continue their current strategy.
  3. Mixed messages from Donald Trump add confusion to the US's position on Ukraine, affecting future policies and discussions.

Stopping the Slaughter

Diane Francis • 419 implied HN points • 03 Oct 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Putin and Zelensky both seem unwilling to negotiate, even as the war continues to escalate with more conflict on the ground.
  2. Both Russia and Ukraine want to achieve better positions before any talks, which makes it hard to find common ground for peace.
  3. The situation could lead to risky outcomes, including the potential use of nuclear weapons, so finding a resolution is very important.

A Year of Ukrainian "Collapse" Narratives:

Phillips’s Newsletter • 152 implied HN points • 26 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Many media stories claimed that Ukraine was about to collapse during the war, painting a very negative picture of their situation.
  2. These repeated negative narratives can be harmful, influencing people's perceptions and possibly decisions regarding support for Ukraine.
  3. Despite the media's alarming predictions, Ukraine has continued to resist and fight back against Russian advances.
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Is He Crazy?

Diane Francis • 659 implied HN points • 17 Mar 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Many people on TV try to explain Vladimir Putin's behavior in the war but often use unreliable sources.
  2. Some are just sharing ideas from his official biography or propaganda.
  3. Masha Gessen, a knowledgeable journalist, offers a deeper understanding of Putin's mindset.

Weapons of Mass Destruction

Diane Francis • 679 implied HN points • 28 Feb 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Russia's military strategy is facing challenges in Ukraine, leading to a shake-up in its leadership.
  2. Putin has heightened the alert status of his nuclear forces as tensions rise.
  3. The U.S. government reassured that Russia is not under immediate threat while criticizing Putin's actions.

Q&A: Genocide in Gaza, Political Assassinations in America and War With Iran

The Chris Hedges Report • 80 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The situation in Gaza is very serious and being described as genocide. Many people are concerned about the impact on civilians.
  2. Political assassinations are happening in America, raising questions about safety and trust in leadership.
  3. There is an ongoing discussion about the possibility of war with Iran, which is causing tension and worry among different communities.

What Europe Should Have Done To Prepare For With Trump

Phillips’s Newsletter • 146 implied HN points • 03 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Europe needs to prepare for possible changes in U.S. support, especially if a populist leader who is not pro-NATO comes to power. This could affect their security and NATO's strength.
  2. The divide between U.S. political views on support for Ukraine and European perspectives is growing. European countries, especially those near Russia, see the war as a direct threat.
  3. If the U.S. reduces support for Ukraine, Europe must step up its military production and planning. Countries need to work together to ensure they can defend themselves effectively.

Arab Regimes and the Betrayal of Palestine (w/ Farah El-Sharif) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 159 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Many Muslim leaders prioritize their relationships with Western powers over their own people, leading to betrayal, especially regarding Palestine. This often results in silence or complicity in the face of violence against their communities.
  2. The oppression faced by Muslim communities is deeply tied to colonial and imperial actions, which continues to create divisions and reap devastation across the region. The struggle in Gaza highlights the extent of this systemic injustice.
  3. Young Muslims are seeking strong, moral leadership that stands for justice and integrity. They feel disillusioned by leaders who fail to uphold these values, and they are inspired to look to historical figures who embodied true resistance.

The Butcher of Bucha

Diane Francis • 619 implied HN points • 04 Apr 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia has led to reports of war crimes and a humanitarian crisis. Mass graves and executed civilians highlight the brutal impact of this conflict.
  2. Historical comparisons are drawn between Putin's actions and past genocides by Stalin and Hitler. The ideology behind these actions is rooted in a desire for control and dominance over Ukraine.
  3. Immediate and strong international action is necessary to stop the ongoing atrocities in Ukraine. Experts warn that failure to confront Putin could lead to further aggression against other countries.

Living in a Multipolar World

John’s Substack • 7 implied HN points • 11 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The world is shifting from a unipolar order to a multipolar one, which brings back intense rivalry among major powers.
  2. With at least three great powers, security competition will become more dangerous and unpredictable.
  3. This transition has serious consequences for international stability and makes managing conflicts harder.

Devoted to "weaker" Russia, exiting Biden team finds "strength" in Ukraine

Aaron Mate • 192 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Jake Sullivan, the National Security Adviser, believes that the U.S. is in a strong position globally as power dynamics change.
  2. He claims that Russia is struggling and has failed in its efforts in Ukraine, suggesting that they are weaker than before.
  3. However, some of his statements seem to simplify or misrepresent what Russia's actual goals have been since the conflict began.

Weekend Update #114: The Year that Confirmed Russia Can Be Beaten

Phillips’s Newsletter • 183 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The Ukrainian military showed strong resilience and has successfully gained ground against Russian forces, particularly through offensives like the Kursk Offensive.
  2. Russia's military has faced significant challenges, suffering high casualties and losing strategic territory despite seizing a small fraction of Ukraine's land.
  3. Support from the US and Europe is crucial for Ukraine's continued success, but there are concerns that political influences could hinder effective assistance.

Germany's Wrongdoing

Diane Francis • 659 implied HN points • 27 Feb 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Germany has a history of making poor choices that negatively impact global affairs. This includes decisions from the previous century that still resonate today.
  2. The country has been criticized for not confronting or holding Russia accountable for its actions. Many believe this attitude shows a lack of strength.
  3. Germany's choice to depend heavily on Russian energy sources has raised concerns, especially during times of geopolitical tension. This dependency is seen as a risky move for the future.

Weekend Update #113: This War is Truly Global

Phillips’s Newsletter • 188 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The war is affecting many countries globally, not just in Europe. Attacks on infrastructure show how serious the situation has become.
  2. North Korean soldiers are facing heavy casualties fighting in Ukraine, which raises concerns about their future and the support they might be getting from Russia.
  3. Russia's military actions are impacting its relationship with other countries. In one incident, Russian forces shot down an Azerbaijani passenger plane, highlighting their unstable control in the region.

China on Harris and Trump Tech Policy

ChinaTalk • 222 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Harris and Trump have very different plans for technology policies if elected. Harris will likely keep regulations tight, while Trump wants to ease rules to boost innovation.
  2. Both candidates agree on being tough on Chinese technology. They see the need to grow American tech while limiting China's influence.
  3. Harris may push for stricter antitrust laws against big tech, while Trump could allow more mergers. Each approach will have a big effect on the tech world.

Master Diplomats Biden and Blinken: A Case Study in Professional Class Screwups

Michael Tracey • 171 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Biden and Blinken faced criticism for their approach to diplomacy, with many saying they failed to connect with other nations effectively. Their methods often seemed to worsen U.S. relationships, especially with countries like China.
  2. Biden's emphasis on rallying support for Ukraine was seen as a low bar for success. He admitted that his policies heightened nuclear risks, which raises concerns about their effectiveness in avoiding major conflicts.
  3. Despite some positive views on the Afghanistan withdrawal, Biden's handling of the situation led to a significant drop in his approval ratings. Many believe he struggled to communicate the positives of this decision.

Gaza, Inc.

Gray Mirror • 158 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Gaza is currently unlivable, but its land could be valuable if properly managed. The idea is that without residents, the land could be developed into a profitable venture.
  2. The concept of Gaza, Inc. suggests creating a corporation that could turn this area into a charter city, attracting wealth and potentially turning each former resident into a shareholder.
  3. There are complex considerations about rights and governance in this new setup, including how to manage the exit of current residents and the implications of past conflicts.

"Putin has a very thin skin..."

Comment is Freed • 58 implied HN points • 30 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Having external reviewers in a defense review process can provide fresh and honest perspectives, which might lead to more innovative solutions. It's better than just relying on internal opinions.
  2. Securing more funding for defense is crucial, and it's important to project future financial needs to avoid making tough cuts later. Having clear budgets helps planning and capability development.
  3. Feeling pressure from various departments is common, especially when trying to implement significant changes. It's essential to navigate these dynamics carefully to achieve the best outcomes.

Prism

Join Activism • 117 implied HN points • 24 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The media distorts reality in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
  2. Media operates under a propaganda model serving powerful interests.
  3. US policy towards Israel conflicts with the Leahy Law regarding human rights violations.

A New Nuclear Role for Britain and France.

Comment is Freed • 64 implied HN points • 13 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Britain and France are deepening their nuclear cooperation to enhance security for both nations and Europe. This means working together to better deter threats and coordinate their nuclear strategies.
  2. The recent agreement reflects concerns about global security, especially with uncertainties regarding the US's commitment to NATO. Both countries are worried about their safety and want to reinforce their positions.
  3. The Northwood Declaration builds on previous agreements and highlights a shared responsibility for European security, especially given the changing political landscape and challenges from neighbors.

A Turning Point

Diane Francis • 559 implied HN points • 28 Apr 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Russia's war on Ukraine is now seen as a conflict against Europe and NATO. Many countries are joining together to support Ukraine in this struggle.
  2. The United States has committed significant military support to Ukraine. This shows stronger ties and alliances forming in response to the conflict.
  3. European countries, especially Germany and France, are stepping up their support for Ukraine. This unity among European nations is important for their collective security.

Thinking Clearly About Politics, Physics, Age, Feinstein, and Biden

The Crucial Years • 827 implied HN points • 01 May 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Realism can help combat ageism and older individuals can make a significant impact in progressive causes.
  2. It's important to be realistic about capabilities and call for changes when political figures are unable to perform effectively.
  3. Honesty is crucial in addressing challenges like climate change and transitioning responsibilities to younger generations can be positive.

The Benefits of Bombing

Something to Consider • 5 HN points • 09 Aug 24
💾 History International relations
  1. More bombing during the war led to increased aid for reconstruction in affected areas. This means the damage done was tied directly to the support that helped rebuild.
  2. Reconstruction funding improved agricultural production by helping transport crops effectively. This shows that investment in infrastructure can really boost local economies.
  3. Displaced workers from agriculture moved into industrial jobs due to the new infrastructure, suggesting that rebuilding after destruction can create new job opportunities.

Weekend Update #112: Ukraine Strikes a Senior Russian Officer (Again).

Phillips’s Newsletter • 183 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Ukraine has launched a targeted strike against a senior Russian officer, showing the ongoing pattern of both sides aiming at each other's high-ranking military leaders during the conflict. Such attacks have been common throughout the war, not a surprising escalation.
  2. The fighting has shifted to smaller areas, particularly near Pokrovsk and Kurakhove, indicating that key battle zones are becoming more condensed rather than expanding. This trend shows the difficulty both sides face in gaining significant ground.
  3. Russia is now relying on North Korean forces to bolster its efforts in Kursk due to significant losses. The North Koreans are struggling with the reality of modern warfare, suffering heavy casualties.

America's Great Game: The View from Inside Iran

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 70 implied HN points • 01 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The war against Iran was not provoked, and Iran was complying with international rules regarding nuclear weapons. This highlights a disparity in military aggression between Israel and Iran.
  2. Many Iranians feel stuck between a bad government and the fear of foreign intervention leading to chaos. They recognize their current government is failing but worry about what might happen if it falls.
  3. The recent attacks on Iran have united its people in defense of their homeland. Even though they dislike their government, they will not forget foreign invasions, which strengthens their national identity.

Weekend Update #116: One Day Until A New World: Case Study on Sanctions

Phillips’s Newsletter • 163 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Sanctions against Russia have toughened recently, making it harder for them to sell oil and damaging their economy. This could weaken their war efforts.
  2. Ukraine's attacks against Russia are increasing in frequency and coordination. They are successfully hitting key targets, which may give them an advantage.
  3. The war seems to be a race to see which side can keep fighting longer. While Ukraine fears running out of support, Russia is also showing signs of weakening, especially if Western aid continues.

Q&A: Genocide in Gaza, Political Assassinations in America and War With Iran (Tomorrow, 7pm ET)

The Chris Hedges Report • 74 implied HN points • 15 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. There will be a live Q&A discussing important topics like the situation in Gaza and the potential war with Iran. It's happening tomorrow at 7pm ET.
  2. People can ask questions during the livestream on YouTube or X, but you need to be a paid subscriber to post questions on the Substack.
  3. If you miss the live stream, you can still watch it later on all platforms once it's done.

Nuke or no nuke?

Diane Francis • 539 implied HN points • 02 May 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The situation in Ukraine is serious, and the risk of nuclear weapons being used is growing. Leaders are worried that Russia might resort to using tactical nuclear weapons in the conflict.
  2. There are many tactical nuclear weapons out there, which are deadlier than most people realize. They can cause massive destruction, similar to the bomb that hit Hiroshima, and Russia has a large stockpile of them.
  3. World leaders need to change their approach to dealing with threats from Russia. Instead of just scolding or warning, they should make clear that there will be very serious consequences if nuclear weapons are used.

Obliteration or Degradation

Comment is Freed • 58 implied HN points • 20 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The recent conflict between Israel and Iran was intense but didn't lead to the major chaos many feared. Ultimately, Iran suffered significant damage but managed to keep its government in place.
  2. Despite claims of destroying Iran's nuclear program, reports suggest that much of it could still be rebuilt. So, the threat of Iran potentially becoming a nuclear power hasn't been completely eliminated.
  3. Short and one-sided wars can have lasting effects. The true consequences of this conflict may not be clear until later, and future actions—whether military or diplomatic—might be needed to ensure Iran doesn’t develop nuclear weapons.

The United States should silently cheer over Russia's invasion of Ukraine and a Chinese invasion of Taiwan

Bruce Fein's Pioneering Lyceum • 117 implied HN points • 16 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Silently cheering over Russia's invasion of Ukraine and a Chinese invasion of Taiwan could make the United States safer.
  2. History shows that colonial conquests often lead to economic burdens and revolts, making them not worth the effort.
  3. Powerful countries like the United States should be cautious about seeking colonial conquests, as they may not bring the intended benefits.

How Europe Fell into the Soft Power Trap

Taipology • 49 implied HN points • 31 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Europe is struggling because it relied too much on soft power and didn't keep up with military strength. This has left them vulnerable to countries that use hard power, like Russia.
  2. India is handling its international relations differently. They want to maintain their independence and aren't caving to pressure, unlike European countries.
  3. The recent trade deals and tariffs highlight how some countries, like Europe, are losing out while others are adjusting better to the new power dynamics in the world.

The Venezuela Crisis and Europe

John’s Substack • 7 implied HN points • 07 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. US policy toward Venezuela and its posturing over Greenland can directly affect European security and political alignments.
  2. How the US handles those two issues will influence Europe's strategic calculations and potential shifts in alliances.
  3. Ongoing public debates are examining these developments to clarify their consequences for European politics and stability.

Me and Jeffrey Epstein

John’s Substack • 14 implied HN points • 02 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. There was a podcast discussion about the Ukraine war and email exchanges between Alan Dershowitz and Jeffrey Epstein. They talked about the timing of these emails being shortly after a controversial article was published.
  2. Dershowitz was involved in trying to discredit two scholars by falsely labeling them as antisemitic. This was based on their academic work regarding the Israel Lobby.
  3. There is anticipation about more emails being released that might reveal further connections or actions between Dershowitz and Epstein in their efforts to target the scholars.

My Geopolitical Prediction of What's to Come

Tessa Fights Robots • 49 implied HN points • 03 Aug 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. There may be plans for more conflict in the Middle East, indicating a volatile situation ahead. It's important to stay aware of global events as they can impact many lives.
  2. The idea of 'Project Israel' could be changing, suggesting major shifts in regional politics and alliances. These changes might lead to significant consequences for the people living there.
  3. The predictions come with a focus on the emotional and spiritual aspects of these geopolitical shifts. Understanding these impacts can help people cope with potential future chaos.

Bureaucratic Lapse, Not Bioterror: The Overblown Fungus Smuggling Case

Pekingnology • 56 implied HN points • 26 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Two researchers were charged for smuggling a common plant fungus into the U.S., but this was more a paperwork issue than a serious threat. They were just trying to expedite their research without the right permits.
  2. The fungus they brought, Fusarium graminearum, is already known in the U.S. and doesn't pose an unusual danger. Experts say it's not a new bioweapon, and farmers have ways to manage it.
  3. The government's response exaggerated the situation, linking it to national security fears instead of just treating it as a customs violation. This reaction reflects ongoing tensions between the U.S. and China rather than a real danger.

With Russia ‘on the march’ in Ukraine, the US pulls away

Aaron Mate • 207 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The US government initially believed that its support for Ukraine would effectively counter Russia's advances. However, their recent admission shows that this support did not yield the expected results.
  2. After a significant funding boost, officials now realize that Russia is still making territorial gains in Ukraine, contrary to their earlier predictions.
  3. The situation has prompted discussions about the need for negotiations with Russia, a shift from previous views that such talks would be premature.

The Zionists Kill Doctors in Gaza and Silence Them Here (w/ Rupa Marya) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 156 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Hospitals are supposed to be safe places during war, but the attacks on medical facilities in Gaza are a serious violation of international law. Medical workers and their facilities should always be protected.
  2. There is a troubling connection between the silencing of healthcare workers in the U.S. and the violence against them in Gaza. By keeping doctors quiet here, it allows for the continuation of harm abroad.
  3. The ongoing health crisis in Gaza, caused by lack of resources and intentional targeting, is creating a humanitarian disaster. Immediate aid and changes in policy are needed to support the health and life of Palestinian people.