The hottest International relations Substack posts right now

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The US Has Taken Sides--Against Democracy

Phillips’s Newsletter • 317 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Leadership International relations Public Opinion
  1. Trump has shifted U.S. policy to blame Ukraine for the ongoing war with Russia. This shows a clear stance against democracy and freedom.
  2. His comments indicate that America is moving away from being a global defender of democratic values. This change has serious implications for countries that depend on U.S. support.
  3. Recognizing that this is the official U.S. government position is crucial. It reflects a broader issue within American politics, and not just Trump's individual beliefs.

Model City Monday 2/3/25

Astral Codex Ten • 15417 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Constitutional Law Political strategy Urban Development Investment International relations
  1. The Honduran Supreme Court has ruled charter cities unconstitutional, impacting Prospera, which is now trying to adapt to regular laws while also pursuing a $10 billion lawsuit for damages.
  2. Saudi Arabia's NEOM project, initially planned as a long linear city, has scaled back to a shorter model, focusing on hosting upcoming major events, showcasing the challenges in large city development.
  3. Trump has proposed creating ten 'freedom cities' on federal land in the U.S., sparking debate about the feasibility and implications of building new cities in less desirable locations.

China Can Cause Blackouts In US And Europe Through Solar Inverter Technology, Suggest Officials

Michael Shellenberger • 1105 implied HN points • 16 May 25
🕹 Technology Infrastructure Cybersecurity Renewable Energy International relations Military Strategy
  1. Chinese solar inverters can be remotely controlled, raising fears about their use in the US and Europe. This means they could shut down power systems unexpectedly.
  2. There are concerns that Chinese companies must cooperate with their government, which might expose critical infrastructure to risks. This includes sharing data or giving access to foreign authorities.
  3. The growth of solar energy could actually make the power grid more vulnerable to blackouts. More connections might create more weak points that could be targeted in a conflict.

"There is no room for firewalls": U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance denounces the closed and exclusionary European political elite to their faces

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 378 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political speech Democracy International relations Populism Authoritarianism Migration
  1. J.D. Vance criticized European leaders for being closed and not listening to the people. He believes that real security comes from embracing democratic values and voices of citizens.
  2. He pointed out that issues like internet censorship and political repression are undermining democracy in Europe and the U.S. He urged leaders to fight for free speech instead of shutting down dissenting opinions.
  3. Vance highlighted that mass migration is a pressing issue that people are concerned about. He called for leaders to take these concerns seriously and respond to the will of the voters.

You're invited

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 5 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Foreign Policy Human Rights Conflict Studies
  1. This weekend, there will be discussions on important topics, including Russia's secret activities in Africa and their impact on Europe.
  2. Philip Obaji is a journalist who has bravely reported on human rights abuses by Russian paramilitaries in Africa, and he will share his insights on this troubling situation.
  3. Former US Ambassador Robert Holley will join discussions about his experiences in Morocco and the Western Sahara conflict, providing valuable perspectives on North Africa.
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Memo to Trump: Beware the ‘Reverse Teddy’

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 908 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy National Security International relations Political strategy Elections
  1. Trump's recent actions have shown strength in dealing with issues in Latin America, but it may come at the cost of ignoring global concerns.
  2. In his first term, Trump managed to maintain a strong presence in Europe and Asia, avoiding new conflicts and making significant deals.
  3. There are worries that in his second term, Trump might focus too much on the Western Hemisphere and neglect vital international relationships.

LOTS OF NEW MATERIAL FOR YOUR VIEWING PLEASURE!

Michael Tracey • 47 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Government Policy International relations Media Commentary Civic engagement
  1. There's a new deal in the works between the US and Ukraine that could give the US control over many Ukrainian resources. This means Ukraine might lose some of its freedom and sovereignty.
  2. A debate in the Oval Office between Zelensky and JD Vance caused a delay in finalizing the deal. This unexpected clash raised questions about the future of US support for Ukraine.
  3. Despite the discussions and controversies, Trump stated that the US will continue to provide arms to Ukraine, showing that military support is still a priority.

Finally Seeing Movement Toward A Gaza Ceasefire As Biden Moves Out Of The Way

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1774 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Elections International relations Government Public Opinion
  1. There's a new chance for a ceasefire in Gaza, which many hope could bring some peace after a long time of fighting. It's a step forward, but not everything is settled yet.
  2. Pressure from the incoming Trump administration seems to have helped negotiate this ceasefire deal. This raises questions about Biden's actions during the conflict.
  3. If the ceasefire holds, it might show that Biden's approach harmed the situation more than other presidents might have. Many believe that a strong stance could have led to better outcomes for the Palestinians.

THE SHOW NOTES: Debate Review, Assaulting An Ex-Girlfriend, & How Will Israel Respond?

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1019 implied HN points • 02 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Debates Policy Public Opinion International relations
  1. The recent Vice Presidential debate showed a surprising level of respect between candidates, with JD Vance appearing to win the exchanges better than Tim Walz.
  2. Doug Emhoff, Vice President Kamala Harris's husband, has been accused of assaulting an ex-girlfriend, which could impact public perception.
  3. Israel responded to a large missile attack from Iran and is expected to retaliate targeting Iran's financial and energy sectors, which shows rising tensions in the region.

The Shootout at The White House

John’s Substack • 12 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy International relations Political Commentary
  1. A serious conflict occurred at the White House involving President Zelensky and US leaders. This conflict sparked a lot of discussion about its impact on international relations.
  2. Experts, like LTC Danny Davis, are discussing what the exchange means for Ukraine's future and America's role in global affairs. It highlights the tensions in current political climates.
  3. People are watching to see how these events will shape future interactions between the countries involved. The outcomes could affect many lives and political dynamics.

✨⏩ JD Vance offers an accelerationist AI vision in Paris

Faster, Please! • 548 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism Technology AI Policy Economic Policy International relations
  1. JD Vance spoke about how technology can empower workers instead of taking their jobs away. It's important to focus on how AI can help people do their jobs better.
  2. He emphasized the need for more support in areas that are less technologically advanced. Investing in the heartland can help create a balanced economy.
  3. Vance's speech addressed the idea of balancing innovation with careful development. It's crucial to ensure that the rapid growth of AI doesn’t lead to negative social impacts.

Germany’s Neglect of National Interests

Glenn’s Substack • 939 implied HN points • 10 Sep 24
🌍 World Politics Nationalism International relations European Politics Security Studies Political theory
  1. Germany's current approach to foreign policy often neglects its own national interests, which could lead to negative consequences for the country.
  2. There is a historical pattern of Germany sacrificing its interests for external powers, similar to its past under France and now the US.
  3. A rise in nationalism may occur as a reaction to this neglect, with people seeking to reclaim control over their national identity and sovereignty.

The Canadians Who Say: ‘Trump, Take My Country—Please!’

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3227 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Opinion International relations National Identity Elections Media
  1. Some Canadians feel so frustrated with their country that they joke about wanting to become part of the United States. They believe life has become stagnant and see more opportunities in America.
  2. People like Ryan Hemsley express a longing for change and believe that becoming the 51st state could bring a fresh start and revitalization.
  3. Discontent with the current political leadership in Canada is leading some to fantasize about a different kind of future under the U.S. government.

What will become of the Sensitive Young Men?

Wrong Side of History • 432 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Social Issues Cultural analysis International relations Historical context
  1. Sensitive young men feel a strong connection to political figures like Trump. They believe that attempts to stop him reflect a broader struggle against their own experiences in society.
  2. There is a growing discussion about how sexual repression might play a crucial role in building civilizations, rather than causing issues as commonly thought.
  3. Political changes often arise from crises. People are more willing to accept big changes when they're facing hardship, making them more open to new ideas.

The Biden Administration Declares That A Genocide Is Happening… In Sudan

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2156 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Foreign Policy Human Rights International relations Political Commentary
  1. The Biden administration has officially declared that a genocide is happening in Sudan, holding a paramilitary group responsible for horrific acts against civilians.
  2. There is criticism of the U.S. for its role in supporting both genocidal actions in Gaza and the atrocities in Sudan, highlighting a contradiction in their foreign policy.
  3. The author believes that the problem lies within the U.S. government and its imperialistic actions, suggesting that simply changing leaders will not solve the ongoing issues of violence and genocide.

Chartbook 341 On thinking in medias res: An Interview with Ding Xiongfei from the Shanghai Review of Books (summer 2024)

Chartbook • 2846 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Global Economy Climate Policy Crisis Management
  1. Polycrisis shows that our world is facing multiple interconnected issues that can't be simply solved with clear solutions. It's about ongoing management rather than resolution.
  2. China's role in the climate crisis is crucial, and it may lead the global response to climate change, changing the narrative where the West is no longer the main actor.
  3. Understanding statistics and data is important, but they need to be seen as part of a broader political and economic system, not just as numbers reflecting reality.

Weekend Update#120: The US Changes Sides?

Phillips’s Newsletter • 334 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Democracy International relations Political Leadership National Security
  1. Trump is openly shifting to support Russia over Ukraine, changing the U.S. stance that previously backed Ukraine's defense. This change is concerning for European leaders who are now realizing the U.S. may not be a reliable ally.
  2. Europe needs to start thinking about its own security without relying on U.S. support. Some leaders are starting to call for a European army to protect themselves from threats like Russia.
  3. The recent U.S. policies have made it clear that Europe must adapt to a new reality where it can't depend on America as much. This could lead to Europe taking stronger control over its own defense and future.

AI Accelerationism Goes Global

Nonzero Newsletter • 384 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Governance International relations Policy News
  1. There are serious concerns about the risks of artificial intelligence, especially with recent global discussions on how to manage it. Many leaders are focusing more on innovation than on safety, which could create big problems down the road.
  2. The ceasefire in Gaza is fragile, with threats from Hamas leading to worries about a return to war. President Trump's recent actions and ideas could be making it harder for peace to stick.
  3. Outrage in politics often comes from deep feelings of fear for safety. Understanding where others are coming from and sharing personal stories might help reduce anger and bring people together.

The US is no longer our ally

Erik Examines • 179 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Foreign affairs Conflict Studies
  1. The US is seen by some as no longer being a reliable ally, with divisions in its political landscape affecting international relationships. This raises concerns about how the US approaches foreign policy and engages with other countries.
  2. There's a belief that the US government is siding with far-right movements in Europe and challenging democratic norms. This shift is viewed as a significant change from past US leadership which was more aligned with traditional allies.
  3. Historical parallels are drawn to past aggressive actions by leaders, showing a worry that current US politics might lead to similar conflicts. Many people prefer to cling to the familiar, but change is coming whether they like it or not.

Against The Generalized Anti-Caution Argument

Astral Codex Ten • 26154 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Elections Public Policy International relations Crisis Management
  1. Being cautious and warning about potential risks is important, even if past warnings seem wrong. These warnings can still highlight dangers that may eventually happen.
  2. Just because someone has made incorrect predictions in the past does not mean we should ignore future concerns. Some risks gradually increase over time, like health issues or the dangers of powerful technologies.
  3. It's crucial to maintain a balanced approach to assessing risks. We should not let past inaccuracies cause us to dismiss all warnings, as they can help us stay alert to genuine threats.

Has Putin just won the Second Cold War?

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 9 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Conflict Studies Security Studies Political theory
  1. Putin's actions may suggest he is gaining influence and might be winning in current global tensions.
  2. There's a belief that the new world dynamics resemble a cold war atmosphere, with divisions in alliances.
  3. The success or failure of leaders in this context can have long-lasting effects on international relations.

Panama Is Back in the News. That Can Be a Good Thing.

Breaking the News • 1834 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Rhetoric International relations Election Influence Public Opinion
  1. Recent talks about the Panama Canal mainly reflect Trump's style of making people feel angry and upset, rather than being based on real issues happening in Panama.
  2. The U.S. cannot 'take back' the canal as it would lead to disaster, just like previous military actions have shown us; it's all about making noise rather than real solutions.
  3. Panama's worth mentioning not just for the Canal, but for its vital water resources and biodiversity, which are important to protecting for future sustainability.

Trudeau’s Not the Only One to Blame

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1711 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Leadership Public Opinion Election Commentary International relations
  1. Trudeau became Prime Minister in 2015, bringing hope for a new progressive era in Canada. Many Canadians had high expectations for his leadership from the start.
  2. Despite his popularity, there were concerns that his charisma overshadowed his political substance. Some people were skeptical about his ability to handle the country's economy effectively.
  3. Criticism of Trudeau was not common early on, as most people favored his youthful image and promises. However, skepticism about his policies and the potential shift toward socialism started to arise.

Niall Ferguson: The Rot In Britain—and the Remedy

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3941 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Freedom of Speech Media Criticism International relations
  1. There is a growing concern about the state of debate and free speech in Britain, especially highlighted by an incident at the Oxford Union. People are feeling that open discussions are being stifled.
  2. During a recent debate, the crowd showed hostility towards pro-Israel speakers, indicating a divide in opinions and a lack of respect for differing viewpoints. This suggests there may be an atmosphere that discourages diverse opinions.
  3. Overall, the situation raises questions about national identity and the importance of preserving traditional values in the face of modern challenges. People are worried about losing what makes their country special.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 05.03.2025

steigan.no • 5 implied HN points • 05 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Affairs Political strategy Government Accountability International relations
  1. NATO's influence on European security has faded, which raises concerns about the potential for conflict between European nations. Leaders now face questions about their own defense and strategic interests.
  2. Billionaires see the situation in Ukraine as a chance to profit, leading to worries over the misuse of financial aid. There are claims that much of the support does not reach the people who need it.
  3. Countries may consider forming a Nordic alliance instead of relying on EU or NATO. This could potentially strengthen their independence and ability to handle security matters on their own.

The Fall of Assad and What Comes Next in Syria

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3612 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Syria International relations Conflict Dictatorship
  1. Bashar al-Assad, the dictator of Syria, has been overthrown after 24 years in power. This change is seen as a major event for the modern Middle East.
  2. Despite the cheers for his fall, there are concerns about the new leaders. Some of the rebel groups that took over were previously linked to more extreme factions like al-Qaeda.
  3. The departure of Assad raises questions about the future of Syria. It is uncertain if the new power dynamics will be better or worse for the country's people.

Retaliatory Tariffs

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

DWN Interview with Harald Kujat: Ukraine Support Without Peace Strategy

Glenn’s Substack • 659 implied HN points • 08 Sep 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Conflict Studies European Politics Security Studies Diplomacy
  1. Neither Ukraine nor Russia can truly win the war. Both sides are unlikely to achieve their political goals, and ongoing support from the West may not change the military balance.
  2. Ukraine's recent offensive into Russian territory may turn out to be a risky move rather than a game-changer. The action could lead to greater military challenges as Ukraine stretches its resources thin.
  3. A peaceful resolution to the conflict seems increasingly distant. Both sides have strong preconditions for negotiations, and external factors like upcoming U.S. elections could impact the situation further.

Trump and Putin: Aligning over Ukrainian Elections

Phillips’s Newsletter • 196 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy International relations Political Analysis Leadership
  1. Trump and Putin seem to be aligning on Ukraine, especially concerning the idea of holding elections there. This cooperation marks a notable change from their prior stances.
  2. Before the election, Trump and his associates didn't prioritize Ukrainian elections in their plans, but now they insist that Ukraine must hold elections soon.
  3. Many believe that Trump's push for elections aims to weaken Ukraine and support Putin's interests, leading Ukrainians to rely more on European assistance than American help.

Out of Gas

Doomberg • 7896 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Energy Policy International relations Leadership Economic strategy
  1. Britain has faced a major decline in its global power and status over the years, driven by poor decisions by its leaders. This decline shows that just having a historic role doesn't mean a country is still significant today.
  2. Currently, Prime Minister Keir Starmer is trying to boost Britain's image by aiming to make it an AI superpower. However, investors are uncertain because of the country's bigger issues, especially in energy.
  3. The UK is struggling with low gas storage and high demand for energy, which makes its ambition for AI seem unrealistic. Without reliable and cheap energy, the goal to succeed in technology will be hard to achieve.

What Xi Believes

ChinaTalk • 919 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Ideology International relations Modernization Economic Policy
  1. Xi Jinping believes Chinese modernization should focus on people's needs rather than just economic growth. He criticizes Western models for causing inequality and promotes a version that fits China's unique culture and history.
  2. The Chinese Communist Party is essential for Xi's vision of modernization. He insists that without the Party's leadership, China cannot succeed and stresses the need for discipline within the Party.
  3. Struggle is a key theme for Xi, who sees it as vital for the Party's survival and China's progress. He encourages a proactive approach to risks, stating that avoiding challenges can lead to decline.

Interview with the Previously Prohibited podcast

Karlstack • 91 implied HN points • 04 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Media Journalism Conservatism International relations
  1. Chris Brunet went from being popular in the anti-woke Right to being an outcast for speaking the truth about Israel's support in conservative media.
  2. He recently wrote about new laws that target BDS and free speech, showing a growing trend among some Republicans.
  3. The interview discusses how these changes affect freedom of expression and highlights the challenges faced by journalists.

Day 7 of Gaza ceasefire: U.S.-manned Netzarim corridor vehicle checkpoint set to open today

All-Source Intelligence Fusion • 529 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Military Affairs Human Rights Government Contracts Security Measures
  1. A vehicle checkpoint controlled by the U.S. is set to open in Gaza, allowing some displaced people to return home. This is part of a ceasefire agreement that started recently.
  2. Two American companies, UG Solutions and Safe Reach Solutions, are involved in managing the checkpoint. They are not very well known but have connections to security operations.
  3. There are concerns and questions about the backgrounds of these companies. One of them is linked to a shell company, and there are calls for more transparency about who is really behind these operations.

Georgia On My Mind

Doomberg • 6668 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations European Politics U.S. foreign policy Conflict Studies
  1. The end of unipolarity makes Europe vulnerable and could lead to significant changes in global power dynamics.
  2. Georgia's political turmoil shows the influence of outside forces like the EU and Russia in the region.
  3. A shift towards a multipolar world means countries need to focus more on their own national interests rather than trying to solve every global issue.

Make America a Continent Again

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 729 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Presidential elections Governance National Identity International relations
  1. The word 'America' means different things to different people. In many Spanish-speaking countries, it refers to the whole continent, not just the United States.
  2. Donald Trump's actions and statements about territories like Greenland and the Gulf of Mexico may upset international relationships and suggest a more aggressive stance.
  3. The strong American influence on the continent comes with a responsibility to act as a stabilizing power. If Trump fails to do so, it could affect how Americans are viewed in the rest of the Americas.

Meditations On A Six Year-Old Amputee Crawling Through Gaza With The Help Of A Roller Skate

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2421 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict Human Rights Middle East Military International relations
  1. A six-year-old boy in Gaza, who lost his legs due to violence, uses a roller skate to help him move. His situation highlights the painful realities many children face in conflict zones.
  2. Many children in Gaza now feel that death is imminent, with a significant number wishing for it. This shows the deep emotional and psychological scars caused by ongoing violence.
  3. The author expresses deep sorrow for the plight of children like Mohammad. It’s important to acknowledge the sadness of such situations without trying to put a positive spin on them.

What Trump gets wrong about US power

Nonzero Newsletter • 384 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy International relations Economic Policy Environmental Policy AI safety
  1. Trump's approach to tariffs risks damaging long-term US power. Countries are already looking to trade more with others instead of relying solely on the US.
  2. The era of American economic dominance is fading as other nations form stronger trade ties. This change means the US may lose influence if it doesn't adapt.
  3. Competition between AI companies may lead to less thorough testing of new models. This rush could create safety issues with powerful AI technologies becoming available too quickly.

Another Nation Absorbed Into The Blob Of The Empire

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2728 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Regime Change International relations Geopolitical Strategy
  1. The US has played a major role in influencing events in Syria. It's important to recognize that outside powers can shape conflicts and outcomes.
  2. People often have their own reasons for fighting in conflicts, but that doesn't mean outside influences are absent. The US and its allies were heavily involved in Syria's struggles.
  3. Understanding global conflict requires acknowledging the US's powerful role as an empire. This knowledge helps explain why certain countries become targets for regime change.

The Saturday Read: A furious year

The Saturday Read • 419 implied HN points • 05 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Conflict International relations Geopolitics History
  1. The Middle East is facing ongoing violence and conflict, especially after significant events like the Hamas attack on Israel. Many believe lasting peace will require changes in Iran.
  2. There is no single 'Catholic vote' in American politics; Catholics often have diverse views that don't fit neatly into either party. This means candidates should engage with Catholic voters carefully.
  3. Green Day's album 'American Idiot' had a powerful impact by encouraging youth to oppose George W. Bush. Its fun style helped spread a serious political message.