The hottest International relations Substack posts right now

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Top World Politics Topics

Weekend Update #108: Ukrainian Ranged Strike is Authorized--But so far is Limited.

Phillips’s Newsletter • 167 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Ukraine can now use US weapons for long-range strikes against Russian military targets, but there are strict limits on how they can be used. They have very few missiles available, which could limit their effectiveness in the ongoing war.
  2. Putin has reacted strongly to these developments, claiming he might escalate the conflict and use nuclear weapons. However, experts believe he is unlikely to act against NATO because it could further harm Russia's position in the war.
  3. The US is sending anti-personnel land mines to Ukraine, a controversial decision given their historical dangers to civilians. This move shows how the changing nature of warfare has made these weapons seem more necessary.

Idiocracy and the Electrolytes of the Masses

American Dreaming • 169 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Donald Trump's re-election could cause big changes in Europe, especially with NATO and relationships with Russia. Countries may need to boost their defenses if they can't rely on the US.
  2. There are worries Trump might change laws about presidential terms, which could allow him to hold on to power longer. This would be a big move away from democratic traditions.
  3. Many American voters seem more focused on cheap prices than moral issues, which might explain why they support Trump despite his past actions. It shows a disconnect between civic responsibility and consumer desires.

The problem with American foreign policy

America in Crisis • 99 implied HN points • 03 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The concept of a coherent national interest in American foreign policy doesn't really apply to democracies.
  2. The shift in America's foreign policy approach over time reflects the influence of domestic politics and party dynamics.
  3. The lack of a unified American foreign policy strategy based on a consistent national interest poses challenges in global affairs and alliances.

Germany: The Land of Stuck Politics

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 133 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Germany's politics are stuck and slow to change. Other countries are moving forward, but Germany is lagging behind in responding to new challenges.
  2. The current political system in Germany seems to prioritize maintaining the status quo over adapting to citizens' needs. This could lead to poor governance in the future.
  3. There is a sense that Germany wants to set a good example for the world, but this approach may not solve its domestic issues or reflect the changing global landscape.

Germany's Folly

Diane Francis • 539 implied HN points • 27 Jan 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Germany is shutting down its nuclear plants, which is risky. This decision has made them rely more on energy from Russia.
  2. The move away from nuclear energy could harm Germany and Europe in the long run. It's raising concerns about energy security.
  3. This situation highlights the challenges of energy policy and its consequences on a country's independence and safety.
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The apocalypse we choose

Thinking about... • 350 implied HN points • 03 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Mike Johnson's actions as Speaker of the House are enabling Russian aggression in Ukraine and risking turning the world towards tyranny
  2. Ukrainian resistance is crucial in halting genocide and preventing nuclear proliferation
  3. American assistance to Ukraine is essential in supporting democracy, preventing catastrophe, and maintaining global stability

Will US collect its $10 million bounty on former AQ leader in Syria?

Aaron Mate • 150 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The US has a $10 million bounty on a former Al Qaeda leader in Syria, raising questions about whether they will collect it. This situation highlights the troubles of the ongoing conflict in the region.
  2. Israel has faced criticism for denying Palestinians their right to self-determination and has been accused of causing a high civilian toll in its military actions in Gaza.
  3. There is debate around Iran's involvement in the Middle East, as some view it as a more reasonable actor compared to Israel, particularly regarding peace proposals that include a Palestinian state.

我最新专栏的中文翻译：《王向偉真話中國》新政府新使命：需堅決遏制‘極左’思潮。

Wang Xiangwei's Thought of the Day on China • 98 implied HN points • 08 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The Chinese government needs to firmly control extreme left-wing ideologies to ensure economic development.
  2. Historical leadership transitions in China focused on economic development and pragmatism rather than ideological debates.
  3. Current challenges in China include economic recovery post-COVID and balancing international relations while curbing extreme nationalist ideologies.

Saturday Commentary and Review #182

Fisted by Foucault • 140 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Europe is facing a tough time with the rise of far-right politics, and things might get worse as economic problems grow. Many traditional left-wing parties are losing support and influence.
  2. The U.S. is in a strong global position as it hands off power to Trump, with a focus on maintaining military support for Ukraine in the ongoing conflict with Russia.
  3. In Georgia, political tensions are high with protests ongoing after a controversial election. The new president has divided opinions, and many are calling for a rerun of the elections.

Chinese Chess

Diane Francis • 379 implied HN points • 04 Jul 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The handover of Hong Kong to China in 1997 was met with mixed emotions, and many people felt that the promised freedoms were never truly kept. Instead of a democratic system, China imposed its authority and control over the region.
  2. Over the years, Hong Kong has faced serious issues like a decline in human rights, a growing wealth gap, and crumbling living conditions for many residents. These problems have led to a loss of faith in its future as a financial center.
  3. Despite its challenges, Hong Kong remains important as a gateway to China for investments. However, due to continuous repression, many educated individuals are leaving, which threatens its status and stability.

UN and NATO Fail

Diane Francis • 459 implied HN points • 07 Apr 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The UN Security Council is flawed because the countries in power can block any action against themselves. This makes it tough to hold countries like Russia accountable for their actions.
  2. NATO's requirement for unanimous approval among its members means that one country can stop any agreement. This creates a situation where important decisions can't be made, even if most countries agree.
  3. Despite clear evidence of war crimes, the international community struggles to punish such actions because of the veto power held by influential countries. This allows leaders like Putin to act without fear of consequences.

Time to Double Down

Diane Francis • 459 implied HN points • 31 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Russia is being described as a criminal organization driven by a passionate leader. They seem focused on taking control of parts of Ukraine.
  2. The message emphasizes the need for a strong response to aggression, implying that weakness won't lead to good outcomes.
  3. There's a sense that the situation calls for serious commitment and action, rather than avoiding tough choices.

Europe's Moment of Truth

Comment is Freed • 109 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is very important for Europe and needs careful analysis. It's crucial to rely on trustworthy sources and check what key players are saying to understand their priorities.
  2. Conflicts evolve in stages, so it's not wise to make firm predictions about the future. Instead, it's better to explore possible developments based on the current situation.
  3. Recent changes in U.S. support, especially Trump's comments about Zelensky, create uncertainty for Ukraine. This makes it vital to stay informed about how negotiations with Russia may influence future support.

THE END FOR ZELENSKY?

Seymour Hersh • 48 implied HN points • 18 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Ukrainian General Valerii Zaluzhnyi is seen as a strong candidate to replace President Zelensky after a stalemate in the war with Russia.
  2. There is speculation that the U.S. may push for Zelensky to leave office, potentially leading to his exile or forced removal.
  3. Many believe the ongoing conflict with Russia needs to be resolved soon to make room for a peace settlement.

Occupying Europe without Troops

Diane Francis • 499 implied HN points • 14 Feb 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The situation with Russia and Ukraine is tense, with uncertainty about a possible invasion. Countries like France and Germany are trying to negotiate with Putin while others have pulled their diplomats out.
  2. Ukraine's leaders are considering not applying to join NATO, which could change the dynamics of their security relations. This decision is being discussed amid rising pressure from Russia.
  3. The reactions from various nations highlight the complexities of international diplomacy and the differing strategies to handle the crisis in Europe.

Davos Impressions and Ukraine: Dealing with a Cult

Phillips’s Newsletter • 124 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Visiting Davos can give insights into the current global situation, though the information may not be completely reliable. It helps in understanding different perspectives on important issues.
  2. There's a perception that American views on Ukraine are somewhat cult-like, focused mainly on understanding their leader's thoughts. This can create a narrow viewpoint.
  3. European leaders seem to recognize the danger of this mindset surrounding Ukraine but often try to appease it instead of addressing the underlying issues.

Freedom and safety

Thinking about... • 172 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Ukrainians are fighting for their freedom and defending democracy, helping to maintain global stability. Their courage allows other countries to focus on their own issues while they bear the burden of the fight.
  2. Supporting Ukraine through donations or by voting for pro-Ukrainian candidates is crucial. Even small contributions can make a big difference in helping them feel safer and more secure.
  3. Democracy is about cooperating and caring for others, not just arguing for our own beliefs. By working together and helping one another, we can all create a world where everyone has more freedom.

Weekend Update #103: North Korea shows itself to be a Great Ally

Phillips’s Newsletter • 177 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. North Korean combat troops may soon join Russia in the Ukraine war, which could change the dynamics on the battlefield. Ukraine's leaders believe over 10,000 troops are being prepared to fight.
  2. Despite claims of rapid Russian advances, the actual progress on the ground has been minimal, raising concerns about the strategy of limiting support for Ukraine. The slow pace of advances suggests a grinding war continues.
  3. President Zelensky has proposed a five-point victory strategy for Ukraine, but there is little support from Western allies, particularly the US, making the situation challenging for Ukraine as it seeks increased military aid.

Iran: Necessity and Opportunity

The Reactionary • 54 implied HN points • 26 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The cease-fire between Israel and Iran is currently holding after Israel conducted strikes on Iranian military targets. This conflict, described as the '12 Day War', shows the complex relationship between both nations.
  2. Israel's strikes aimed to ensure that Iran does not develop nuclear weapons, which they see as a serious threat. The timing of these strikes was crucial, as Iran's defenses were weakened, giving Israel a strategic advantage.
  3. The outcomes of the strikes are still being assessed, but initial reports suggest significant damage to Iran's nuclear capabilities. This might delay their nuclear program for years, but the full impact remains to be seen.

Chris Hedges on MOATS: Catastrophe for the Palestinians and the Region

The Chris Hedges Report • 137 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The situation for the Palestinians is dire, leading to increased suffering and instability in the region.
  2. There are significant consequences for neighboring countries as the conflict escalates, potentially affecting their security and politics.
  3. Understanding this issue requires recognizing the historical context and ongoing impact on people's lives in the affected areas.

The US Seems to Be Deliberately Weakening its Global Position

Phillips’s Newsletter • 120 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The US is becoming weaker on the global stage, which affects its influence and power. This might lead to challenges in maintaining its leadership in international matters.
  2. Alliances between countries are more powerful than relying on individual nations alone. Strong partnerships can help ensure security and success in conflicts.
  3. China's economic strength is growing, and when considering purchasing power, it may be leading over the US. This shows that economic measures can change the perception of power between countries.

Calling Vlad's Bluff

Diane Francis • 519 implied HN points • 13 Jan 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Many people are not worried about the possible Russian invasion of Ukraine because they have other pressing issues, like rising gas prices and COVID-19. It shows how different countries prioritize their concerns.
  2. In Western Europe, there is a strong sense of disbelief about Putin's actions due to the trauma from past world wars. This reflects a hesitant attitude towards viewing Russia as a real threat.
  3. The idea that Russia is engaging in a 'slow-motion hybrid war' is becoming more accepted, but not everyone sees it as a significant danger yet. People seem to underplay the risks involved.

Putin-flation

Diane Francis • 359 implied HN points • 07 Jul 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Russia's actions have led to severe inflation in many countries, impacting economies worldwide. This inflation is more harmful than some sanctions against Russia.
  2. Germany is particularly affected due to its heavy reliance on Russian energy. This dependence has harmed its economy and could lead to significant challenges this winter.
  3. While many countries face economic downturns, the U.S. is less impacted due to its resources. Still, experts predict that the U.S. may enter a recession soon.

Le Figaro Interview

John’s Substack • 7 implied HN points • 27 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. An interview was published in Le Figaro Magazine on 12 December 2025. It was presented as a featured piece in that issue.
  2. High-resolution images of the interview are embedded and can be clicked to enlarge for easier reading.
  3. The post includes links and visible engagement counts (e.g., 132, 54, 26), indicating shares and reader interaction.

Sanction China's Silence

Diane Francis • 459 implied HN points • 07 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. China's silence during conflicts can raise concerns for global relationships. It shows how complex alliances and enmities really are in politics.
  2. Russia is a key resource supplier to China, but supporting Russia could alienate China's other important partners, especially in the West.
  3. It's important to recognize that wanting a stable relationship with Russia might not benefit China's global standing or its dealings with Western countries.

Pakistan warns of foreign-backed regime-change attempt, to disrupt China/Russia alliance

Geopolitical Economy Report • 299 implied HN points • 04 Apr 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan is facing a foreign-backed regime-change attempt due to his opposition to US foreign policy and his effort to strengthen Pakistan's relations with China and Russia.
  2. Khan's vocal support for Palestinian liberation and his anti-colonial voice on the international stage have made him a target for hostile global elites.
  3. The regime-change efforts in Pakistan reflect a geopolitical power play involving Western interests seeking to assert control and discipline Pakistan amidst its growing alliances with China and Russia.

Saturday Commentary and Review #156

Fisted by Foucault • 333 implied HN points • 24 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Israel's existence sparks heated debates and conflicts globally, especially regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict.
  2. USA faces a dilemma in prioritizing support for Ukraine against Russia or focusing on countering China in East Asia.
  3. European farmers are protesting against EU policies that may affect their livelihoods, revealing a disconnect between elites and the people.

The Trump Plan Has Been Basically The Same For 6 Months

Phillips’s Newsletter • 109 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Donald Trump's plan for Ukraine hasn't changed much over the past six months. It mainly focuses on a peace deal that favors Russia.
  2. According to this plan, Ukraine wouldn't be allowed to reclaim its territories while Putin is in power. This limits Ukraine's chances of recovery.
  3. The proposed plan also keeps Ukraine out of NATO and suggests some easing of sanctions on Russia, which could hurt Ukraine in the long run.

Will Benjamin Netanyahu Win Another Term as Prime Minister?

Gideon's Substack • 14 implied HN points • 14 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Netanyahu's support is mixed, but the political scene in Israel is moving further to the right, with many people wanting a right-wing government.
  2. Polling shows Likud could win the most seats in the next election, but forming a stable government will depend on alliances with other parties.
  3. If Netanyahu is re-elected, the international community may struggle to separate their perceptions of him from Israel itself, making future relations more complicated.

As US floats revival of Istanbul talks, Zelensky and Starmer scramble

Aaron Mate • 100 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The US is considering restarting peace talks that were previously halted in Istanbul. This might open new discussions about resolving tensions.
  2. Zelensky and Starmer are actively trying to persuade Trump to support continued military action. They appear to be concerned about losing momentum in their efforts.
  3. The situation is dynamic as different leaders are scrambling to respond to changes in the political landscape. This could impact international relations significantly.

A Requiem For Ba'athism (Part 1 of 2)

Fisted by Foucault • 128 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The Syrian government quickly collapsed, with major cities falling to opposition forces in a matter of weeks. This rapid change marked the end of Ba'athism and the Assad family's rule.
  2. The regime's failure was due to a mix of internal issues like demoralization among troops and lack of support from allies like Iran and Hezbollah. It wasn't a heroic battle but rather a series of local surrenders.
  3. The collapse of the Assad regime shows how much the political landscape in the Arab world has changed. It's also seen as a broader consequence of historical grievances and foreign interventions in the Middle East.

The Vatnik Tell

Phillips’s Newsletter • 128 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The term 'non-aligned' is a key point in discussions about Ukraine's future and its relationships with NATO and Russia.
  2. For Ukraine to maintain this 'non-aligned' status, it can't join NATO or host foreign troops for security.
  3. The statements from different speakers show a consistent view that Ukraine must stay clear of foreign military influence to avoid escalating tensions.

Japan, Germany Re-arm

Diane Francis • 379 implied HN points • 23 May 22
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Japan and Germany are increasing their military strength for the first time since World War II, mainly due to rising threats from Russia and China. This shift shows they are ready to play a bigger role in global security.
  2. Both countries are also changing their defensive strategies, with Japan possibly revising its pacifist constitution and Germany committing to higher defense spending. This reflects a new approach to handling international conflicts.
  3. The rearmament of these nations can alter the balance of power in the Asia-Pacific region. Their actions signal support for democratic values and alliances against authoritarian threats.

No, Winning a War Isn't "Genocide"

American Dreaming • 323 implied HN points • 26 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Many young people hold misconceptions about Israel and the Holocaust, with a significant percentage believing in false narratives.
  2. There is a growing disconnect between the perception of 'genocide' and the reality of Israel's actions in the war with Hamas.
  3. Israel's military actions, while criticized as disproportionate by some, are viewed by many as necessary for self-defense and preserving their nation.