The hottest International relations Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

Good On Paper?

Some Unpleasant Arithmetic • 10 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Argentina's President Javier Milei has had a surprisingly positive first year, with the economy starting to recover from a significant recession.
  2. Inflation remains high but is showing signs of stabilization, with measures in place to control prices and exchange rates.
  3. Milei's economic strategy revolves around allowing both the local peso and foreign currencies like the dollar to coexist, aiming to maintain money demand and improve economic confidence.

Zheng Yongnian on how to address Western public opinion on China: facts, science, and reason

Pekingnology • 60 implied HN points • 21 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Understand the formation of narratives to address Western public opinion on China
  2. Respond to Western criticisms with facts, science, and reason instead of a different ideology
  3. Prioritize sustainable development in China, focus on citizens' support, and be open to Western groups for improved understanding

Taking Illiberalism seriously

Theory Matters • 10 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. We need to be careful about how we talk about democracy. It's not just about having elections; real democratic health needs strong institutions and genuine respect for rules.
  2. Illiberal regimes are becoming more common, and this is challenging liberal democracies. People can still vote but might not accept the results, which creates confusion about what democracy really means.
  3. Political and international stability isn't the same as true democracy. Democracies need to be able to adapt and face challenges, rather than just maintaining a facade of order.
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Middle East 201

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 4 implied HN points • 09 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The Iran-Iraq War lasted from 1980 to 1988 and involved a lot of tragic events, including the use of chemical weapons and the impact on civilians.
  2. Understanding this war is crucial for grasping current Middle Eastern politics, especially the tensions between Sunni and Shia Muslims and Iran's nuclear aspirations.
  3. Reading recommended resources like 'The Iran-Iraq War' by Pierre Razoux and the graphic novel 'Persepolis' can provide deeper insights into the conflict and its consequences.

I Guess I'll Be the Asshole to Point Out that the Gaza War Isn't Over

I Might Be Wrong • 10 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The Gaza War isn't officially over, even with a ceasefire in place. People need to understand what a ceasefire really means; it's just a break, not a permanent solution.
  2. Many protesters use strong words like 'genocide' and 'apartheid' without really knowing their meanings. It’s important to know what these terms actually define.
  3. Negotiations for the future are set to start soon, but there are still many complex issues to deal with. This means that fighting could easily resume once the ceasefire ends.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 15.07.2025

steigan.no • 4 implied HN points • 15 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. U.S. weapons sent to Ukraine may not change the outcome of the war, and some believe they just extend the suffering of the Ukrainian people. They suggest that Ukraine needs more people, not just more weapons.
  2. Hungary has refused to finance American weapons for Ukraine, highlighting tensions within the EU regarding military support and raising questions about the economic burden on member states.
  3. There's concern about the power of a few corporations controlling the food supply in Norway, leading to higher prices and fewer choices for consumers. Many feel that politicians need to take action to improve this situation.

Give Trump Several Nobel Prizes So That He Can Be Less Weird

I Might Be Wrong • 4 implied HN points • 09 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Trump's actions suggest he may be siding with Russia in the Ukraine war, which raises serious concerns. He seems to be blocking support for Ukraine and wants to make things easier for Russia.
  2. Some people think Trump might have personal reasons for his support of Russia, potentially involving financial interests. It's suggested he might prioritize money over moral values.
  3. There's speculation that Trump wants to win a Nobel Peace Prize by ending the conflict in Ukraine, even if that motivation seems silly and self-serving. This idea points to a pattern of acting for personal gain rather than the greater good.

The Forest and the Trees: Ukraine's Strategic Dissipation

Big Serge Thought • 13 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. In Ukraine, the ongoing war has led to a lack of clear strategy and focus, making it hard to achieve their goals. They keep changing their plans without a solid path to victory.
  2. Ukraine has aimed for total victory by wanting to reclaim all its original territories, but this goal seems unrealistic given the current military situation. They're stuck and can't find a way to negotiate or end the conflict.
  3. Ukraine's attempts to open new fronts or provoke NATO intervention have not worked and have even made things worse. Their operations are not helping them win, and they're losing valuable resources in the process.

Stone, Scissors, Paper.

Trying to Understand the World • 9 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Western political leaders lack knowledge about military strategy and security, which makes it hard for them to respond effectively to current conflicts. They need to understand past lessons from wars and develop a clearer strategy moving forward.
  2. Technological advancements in warfare, like drones and tanks, should be understood in context rather than treated as standalone solutions. Their effectiveness depends on various factors, including the enemy's capabilities and the specific goals of a conflict.
  3. The war in Ukraine is changing the dynamics of European security. European nations need to reconsider their approaches to defense and their relationship with Russia, moving beyond outdated policies and focusing on collective interests and independence.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 09.07.2025

steigan.no • 4 implied HN points • 09 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The BRICS 2025 meeting in Rio was a significant success, emphasizing support for member nations under pressure and developing new financial frameworks that bypass traditional systems like SWIFT.
  2. A proposed U.S. law aims to ban geoengineering practices, highlighting ongoing debates over weather manipulation and climate intervention, despite skepticism among meteorologists and media.
  3. Saudi Arabia is shifting its focus from Israel to Iran in terms of regional security, indicating a move towards more pragmatic diplomatic relations in the Gulf amid changing geopolitical dynamics.

The Cold War in Hot Places

Dr. Pippa's Pen & Podcast • 26 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The superpowers are engaged in a modern Cold War in various hotspots around the world, such as Africa, Latin America, and the South Pacific.
  2. Russia is increasing its influence in Africa through initiatives like the new Africa Corps, offering regime security in exchange for resources, and strategic barter deals like providing grain to gain favor.
  3. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has expanded to involve fights in regions like Sudan as both sides try to secure resources and support from African nations.

Desperation Time in Ukraine

John’s Substack • 12 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The situation in Ukraine is very serious and there is a sense of urgency. Many people are feeling desperate as the conflict continues.
  2. The Biden Administration's actions in Ukraine are being closely examined. There are concerns about how these decisions may affect the future of the country.
  3. Conversations around the conflict reveal a lot of different opinions and predictions. It's important to stay informed and understand the different perspectives involved.

The Curse Of Zhou Bai Den.

Trying to Understand the World • 9 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Many European countries seem overly focused on US politics, often ignoring important issues happening in their own nations. This shows a lack of balance in how they engage with global affairs.
  2. There's a trend where European elites adopt American cultural and social norms without questioning them, which often doesn't fit well with their own histories and values. This can lead to confusion and loss of cultural identity.
  3. The historical experiences of Europe differ greatly from those of the US, leading to a disconnect in understanding and addressing global issues. Many Europeans are grappling with their past while trying to navigate a future influenced by American ideals.

Assad is finished

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 11 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  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

Elon Musk Is Completely Full Of Shit!

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 12 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Elon Musk has made money from the war in Ukraine by using Starlink technology that was meant for military use, which raises questions about his credibility.
  2. The proposal for Ukraine's neutrality and a buffer zone likely won't satisfy Russia, as they have clear goals for their military actions.
  3. Musk and Trump, despite their attempts to present alternative views, are seen as part of the established political system and not genuinely offering solutions.

Revolution in Syria

Gideon's Substack • 11 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The situation in Syria is changing rapidly, and it caught many by surprise. The collapse of the al-Assad regime could lead to new dynamics in the region.
  2. Turkey may benefit the most from the new regime in Syria, gaining control over the northern areas and possibly reducing Iran's influence. However, it's unclear what Turkey plans to do next.
  3. The role of outside powers, especially Russia and the U.S., will be crucial moving forward. They need to understand the complex situation instead of thinking their actions alone caused these changes.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 31.01.2025

steigan.no • 9 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Arendal is facing a financial crisis because a battery company, Morrow, has delayed its plans despite receiving a large government loan. This has left the local government struggling to cover expenses created by this project.
  2. Tulsi Gabbard spoke out about past U.S. support for Al-Qaida in Syria, highlighting concerns about American foreign policy and its consequences. She brought attention to a covert CIA operation that armed extremist groups, stirring debate on national security.
  3. The political situation in Norway is changing as the Center Party has left the government due to disagreements over EU directives. This move could impact their voter support and may lead to more discussions about Norway's relationship with the EU.

Turning the Tide in Ukraine, but Not in the Middle East

John’s Substack • 8 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. U.S. policy is changing significantly towards Ukraine and Russia, showing a shift in approach. This suggests new strategies may be developing to address the conflict in that region.
  2. However, U.S. policy towards Israel remains stagnant and hasn't adapted despite changes elsewhere. This could indicate a complex and possibly outdated perspective on the Middle East.
  3. The differences in U.S. foreign policy highlight how different regions can have vastly different responses from the same country. It's important to understand these nuances in global politics.

Xi tells Macron on camera: we are bosom friends/Zhiyin

Pekingnology • 49 implied HN points • 07 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. French President Macron received extensive positive publicity during his visit to China, with state media highlighting his interactions with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
  2. President Xi expressed willingness to jointly call for a political settlement of the Ukraine crisis with France during a meeting with Macron.
  3. The joint declaration between China and France included commitments to maintain high-level meetings, deepen strategic partnerships, and support cooperation in areas like technology and economic development.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 10.08.2025

steigan.no • 3 implied HN points • 10 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Ukraine is currently facing a complex issue with glorifying historical figures who collaborated with Nazis during World War II. This has sparked discussions on ethics and national identity.
  2. The military in Ukraine has been influenced by far-right ideologies, leading to the adoption of controversial symbols and names associated with Nazi Germany. This reflects a growing trend of historic revisionism.
  3. There is a significant lack of public criticism regarding the use of Nazi symbols within the Ukrainian military, largely due to a narrative that promotes a united front against external threats.

Talking about a Ukraine Deal on CNN

John’s Substack • 8 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The U.S. and Europe have different views on how to end the Ukraine war. It's important to understand these differences for better solutions.
  2. A new deal between Russia and the U.S. seems to be forming, which will impact Ukraine's response.
  3. Discussing these topics publicly can help shed light on the complexities of international relations, especially regarding conflicts.

Happy Holidays: America's Enemies Are Imploding

I Might Be Wrong • 10 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  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.

"North Korean Troops!" Can Not Be Used As An Excuse For NATO Troops, In The Ukraine!

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 12 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. NATO troops are already in Ukraine and have been fighting there for years. Their presence is a significant part of the ongoing conflict.
  2. There are doubts about North Korean military support for Russia in Ukraine. Many believe this narrative might just be a strategy to justify NATO's involvement.
  3. The war is seen as a failure for the US and its allies, causing a lot of political humiliation. There are concerns about how to manage the outcomes of their involvement.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 07.08.2025

steigan.no • 3 implied HN points • 07 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Trump is raising tariffs on India, which might push India closer to China. Modi's visit to China shows an effort to strengthen ties despite US pressure.
  2. Michael Hudson talks about how China is creating a new financial system that challenges US dominance. This could help many countries break free from what's called American financial colonialism.
  3. There's a growing concern about how Western media influences public opinion, often pushing narratives that support NATO and its actions. This control affects what people believe about global conflicts.

🍽️ Did You Eat Today?

UnfairNation by Ehsan Zaffar • 3 implied HN points • 29 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Many Palestinians have been killed while simply trying to get food for their families. It's shocking to think they face violence when seeking basic supplies.
  2. There seems to be a disconnect where people don't fully understand or care about the suffering happening to others far away. This can lead to silence and complicity regarding those tragedies.
  3. It's important for us to be aware of the realities others face and to keep speaking out about it. Ignoring these issues only allows them to continue.

Putin Challenges the West to a Duel

John’s Substack • 10 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  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.

Finally, a Cease-Fire

Gideon's Substack • 9 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. A new cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas is in place, but it's hard to believe it will last long. There are doubts about whether all sides will honor it.
  2. Both sides are claiming victory despite significant losses, but neither has achieved meaningful goals for lasting peace. The situation remains tense and complicated.
  3. The incoming president could influence future negotiations, but there are concerns about what they can really offer to either side, especially given the unrest in the West Bank.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 25.06.2025

steigan.no • 4 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Russia's view on Iran has changed. They are now more skeptical and worried about the U.S.'s actions towards Iran, especially after the recent attacks.
  2. There's a push in Norway to require farmers to use methane-reducing feed, but it's unclear where this idea came from since it wasn't proposed during negotiations.
  3. A study claims that Israel has 'disappeared' nearly 400,000 Palestinians in Gaza, highlighting severe human rights concerns amid ongoing conflicts.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 15.02.2025

steigan.no • 8 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. US Vice President JD Vance criticized the EU for being undemocratic and suppressing free speech during his speech at a security conference. He emphasized that the real threat to Europe comes from its own actions, not from outside nations like Russia.
  2. There is a growing belief that the war in Ukraine has been a proxy conflict, with the US using Ukraine to challenge Russia, and the West is now facing the reality of losing that conflict. European nations will need to take more responsibility for their own defense.
  3. The pharmaceutical industry is heavily influencing medical practices by donating to patient organizations and shaping health policies, which raises concerns about the integrity and independence of healthcare recommendations.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 24.06.2025

steigan.no • 4 implied HN points • 24 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The EU feels lost about its place in the world as it transitions to a multipolar environment, needing to redefine its role and establish independent partnerships, especially with countries like China.
  2. The U.S. is engaging in conflicts like the one with Iran primarily to maintain control over global resources and prevent other nations from gaining independence from American influence.
  3. Recent military actions in the Middle East show a move towards outright aggression, undermining international law and prompting fears of an increased arms race and retaliatory actions from affected nations.

Bad Ideas on Ending the Ukraine War

John’s Substack • 10 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Many Western leaders have unrealistic ideas about how to end the Ukraine war. They often don’t fully consider the perspectives and motivations of Russia.
  2. There is a strong sense that the Western approach to the conflict is disconnected from reality. This can lead to poor decisions and a longer-lasting war.
  3. Addressing the conflict might require a more pragmatic and honest discussion about the interests of all parties involved. It's important to find common ground to achieve peace.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 23.06.2025

steigan.no • 4 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Hormuz Strait is really important because about 20% of the world's oil passes through it. If it gets shut down, oil prices could soar, affecting everyone.
  2. Big banks are moving away from supporting renewable energy and are investing heavily in oil instead. This shows that fossil fuels are still seen as a profitable choice.
  3. Using AI tools like ChatGPT might help you work faster, but it can actually harm your brain's ability to learn and think deeply, plus it's bad for the environment.

Russia Makes One Of Those Checkmate In One, Moves And Pulls Netanyahu's Teeth From His head.

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 12 implied HN points • 19 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Russia's navy is now in Iranian ports, which could shift power dynamics between the US, Israel, and Iran. This move shows Russia's growing influence in the region.
  2. There's a shift towards a multi-polar world where countries are moving away from being controlled by US financial power. This means other countries are taking more control over trade and diplomacy.
  3. Many American business leaders want a break from constant wars and military influence. There's a belief that the public will soon push back against the political and corporate systems controlling elections.

An Interview with MEP Cristian Terhes

Who is Robert Malone • 9 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Cristian Terhes is a member of the European Parliament who fought against COVID-19 vaccine mandates based on his experiences living under a communist regime. He believes that the government should not force medical treatments on individuals.
  2. Romania's response to vaccine mandates was shaped by its history of tyranny, making citizens more skeptical of government authority compared to those in Western Europe. This skepticism led to significant protests and pushed the government to delay harsh measures.
  3. Terhes emphasizes the importance of defending freedom and civil rights, cautioning that once governments compromise these principles, it can lead to severe consequences for society. He calls for vigilance against any push for increased government control.

Fracturing the Security Map

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 11 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. If Ukraine doesn't win against Russian aggression, countries might feel they need their own nuclear weapons for protection. This could lead to an increase in global tensions and nuclear threats.
  2. Countries that rely on U.S. security may consider forming their own military alliances if they feel the U.S. is unreliable. This could create new, dangerous power dynamics in Europe and beyond.
  3. To avoid a chaotic situation, it's crucial for the U.S. and NATO to actively support Ukraine. A weak response could undermine global security and encourage more nations to seek nuclear arms.