The hottest International relations Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

Chinese AI in 2025, Wrapped

ChinaTalk • 904 implied HN points • 11 Dec 25
🕹 Technology International relations
  1. DeepSeek's launch in January sparked a race in China for open-source AI models. This shift is changing how companies approach AI development, making it more collaborative and accessible.
  2. Manus, an AI startup, tried to go global by moving out of China, showing a trend of Chinese tech firms seeking international expansion. This brings attention to how companies are adapting to new markets.
  3. China introduced new policies for using AI, like requiring labels on AI-generated content. However, these rules are struggling with enforcement, highlighting the challenges of keeping up with rapid tech advancements.

The Greenland Rare Earths Edition

Why is this interesting? • 1266 implied HN points • 18 Nov 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Greenland has rich rare earth deposits, but they're also concerned about the environmental effects of mining. They've decided not to mine if it means harming their land.
  2. While China dominates rare earth processing, Greenland is using their resources to ask for better partnerships. They want to work with people who handle the toxic waste responsibly.
  3. Instead of just being a place for resource extraction, Greenland is pushing for sustainable development and a diverse economy. They're asking more modern questions about how to protect their environment while growing.

Moscow's Syria

Diane Francis • 1179 implied HN points • 20 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Ukrainian forces, with help from Syrian rebels, recently attacked Russian mercenaries in Syria. This move aimed to stop Russia from building its military presence there.
  2. Syria has turned into a messy situation for Moscow, acting as a training ground for various militants. Russian involvement in Syria has escalated conflicts in other regions too.
  3. There is a shared enemy among Syrians, Ukrainians, and the West regarding Russian aggression. This common goal has sparked cooperation between these groups against Russia.

Justin Trudeau's Painful Last Faceplant

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 15168 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Justin Trudeau is trying to discuss women's rights and progress but faces challenges due to political tensions with the U.S.
  2. The situation is tense because Donald Trump has threatened Canada with tariffs, affecting their trade relationship.
  3. The ongoing conflict between Trudeau and Trump has become a spectacle, drawing public attention and commentary.

March 7, 2026

Letters from an American • 31 implied HN points • 08 Mar 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The president’s public demand for Iran’s “unconditional surrender” and shifting goals show chaotic decision-making with little planning for the aftermath, escalating violence and risking wider regional conflict and global disruption.
  2. The administration is pushing military-style interventions in the Western Hemisphere—calling for an anti-cartel coalition, convening right-wing allies, and openly threatening Cuba—which signals expanded U.S. aggression beyond the Middle East.
  3. Lawmakers and reporters warn that the president’s actions often align with Russian interests, and concerns about ties linked to the Epstein files and reports of Russia aiding Iran raise serious national security and motive questions.
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EU set to embrace migrant offshoring hubs at today's summit

Gulf Stream Blues • 39 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The EU is considering offshore migrant hubs to deport asylum seekers faster. This is a change from their previous stance that deemed such actions illegal.
  2. Leaders like Italy's Prime Minister Meloni support this approach, aimed at sending migrants to countries like Albania, which are not part of the EU.
  3. There are mixed opinions among EU countries about this plan, with some fearing it may violate international law and not effectively address the root migration issues.

The Emperor Has No Brains

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 15573 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. There's a lot of military tension right now, and the actions being taken could either mean nothing or signal serious problems ahead. It's a risky situation for everyone involved.
  2. Joe Biden's recent appearances and decisions have raised questions about who is really leading NATO and whether he is in control of the situation.
  3. With more advanced weapons being used in the conflict, the potential for escalation is high, and it’s important to pay attention to how this affects global relations.

Why Japan opened itself up to immigration

Noahpinion • 13059 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Japan used to be very strict about immigration for a long time, unlike many other rich countries. But starting around 2010, Japan began allowing more immigrants into the country.
  2. Despite not taking in many immigrants for years, Japan had a good quality of life during the 1990s and 2000s. However, the country faced issues like low wages and living standards, which led them to change their immigration policies.
  3. Many people think Japan is unique because of its racial homogeneity, but it's actually similar to other developed countries in how it deals with immigration. It's important not to create myths about Japan that could mislead other countries.

Trump's Flaws Make Him Good at the Middle East

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 1414 implied HN points • 19 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Trump has had notable success in the Middle East, an area that has challenged many previous leaders. This shows that his approach is different from traditional methods.
  2. His relationship with leaders like President Ahmed al-Sharaa of Syria reflects a shift in US policy that some might find surprising.
  3. The traits that help him succeed in the Middle East are often seen as flaws elsewhere, suggesting that a different style can sometimes be effective.

Putin's Hungarian

Diane Francis • 839 implied HN points • 04 Jul 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Viktor Orbán is now leading the EU for six months, but he's got a close relationship with Russia, making him an outsider in European politics.
  2. Orbán suggested a ceasefire in Ukraine, but his request doesn't align with EU policies and seems irrational given the past invasions.
  3. He's faced criticism for undermining EU values and institutions, raising concerns about the potential impacts on Europe during his presidency.

Deadlocks and Credibility

Bet On It • 140 implied HN points • 12 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The usual worry that countries will take a deal and then betray it is backward; leaders often refuse even to pretend to negotiate on core principles, and that refusal is what keeps many deadlocks in place.
  2. Publicly changing a fundamental stance would be a credible signal of real internal change and would likely trigger major domestic upheaval, so such shifts are rare and unlikely to be mere tricks.
  3. Grandstanding and ideals (Idealpolitik) shape international behavior more than cynical bargaining, so simple payoffs or bribes usually won’t break entrenched conflicts.

Migration Mess

Diane Francis • 959 implied HN points • 24 Jun 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Immigration is a hot topic in elections, with many people feeling overwhelmed by the number of migrants and their needs.
  2. Historically, immigrants have faced challenges, and the perception of them has often been mixed, depending on their ability to fit in and contribute.
  3. Today's migration is influenced by global conflicts and human smuggling, leading to a rise in populist reactions against migrants.

Christ of the Ozarks

Sarah Kendzior’s Newsletter • 5172 implied HN points • 06 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Christ of the Ozarks is the tallest Jesus statue in the USA, standing at 67 feet tall in Arkansas.
  2. Eureka Springs, Arkansas, where Christ of the Ozarks is located, has a unique blend of evangelical and LGBTQ communities coexisting for decades.
  3. The partnership between the Great Passion Play in Eureka Springs and Israeli backers has brought controversial elements like Israeli bomb shelters to the religious complex, sparking discussions on politics, hate speech, and ideologies.

CCP Purges as Camp

ChinaTalk • 726 implied HN points • 14 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Xi Jinping has removed more officials from power than Mao, making purges a normal part of his leadership. This has created lots of gossip and speculation about who will rise or fall next in the political ranks.
  2. Bo Xilai's rise and fall resemble a dramatic story with elements of revenge and intrigue. His ambitious nature and controversial actions caused friction with other party members and led to his ultimate downfall.
  3. The drama and excess of Chinese politics can make events feel very theatrical. Many past feuds and conflicts echo historical struggles, making the current political scene a blend of old rivalries and modern politics.

The Biblical Case For Supporting Israel

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 3362 implied HN points • 14 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Supporting Israel is often linked to beliefs held by many Christians. Some think that failing to support Israel can have serious consequences.
  2. The Bible has many verses that emphasize peace and helping others. These teachings are sometimes used to argue for supporting Israel.
  3. Finding a direct command in the Bible for supporting a modern Israel is tricky. Many verses can be interpreted in different ways.

China Plays Putin

Diane Francis • 1019 implied HN points • 17 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The G7 has imposed sanctions on Russia, leading to economic troubles for them. Russians are struggling to buy dollars because of this.
  2. Ukraine is strengthening its security by signing deals with the U.S. and NATO countries, aiming to become a NATO member soon.
  3. China is benefiting from Russia's situation by buying cheap Russian oil and selling them consumer goods, making Russia more dependent on China.

Foreign Lobbying Is Booming in Trump’s Washington

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 102 implied HN points • 19 Feb 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Foreign governments and companies are spending big on Washington lobbyists to get access to the Trump administration.
  2. Since the 2024 election there have been over 380 new foreign lobbying registrations, a higher total than in the comparable period under any of the last seven presidents.
  3. Critics say this boom clashes with "America First" goals, because tariff fights and new trade deals are creating lucrative opportunities for lobbyists to influence policy.

On Mark Zuckerberg's Speech Announcement

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 11159 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Mark Zuckerberg's call for free speech suggests a conflict between the U.S. and other countries over censorship laws. This highlights the challenges tech companies face globally.
  2. Zuckerberg believes the U.S. has a strong foundation for free expression, but countries like Europe and China are enforcing more censorship. This creates a tough environment for innovation.
  3. The recent changes in speech laws and agreements may lead to more battles over free expression. Zuckerberg's insights indicate that discussions on these topics are becoming more urgent.

IS TRUMP A LIABILITY IN HIS OWN WAR?

Seymour Hersh • 45 implied HN points • 05 Mar 26
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. His public remarks have revealed sensitive intelligence and likely put covert contacts inside Iran at risk, prompting searches and reprisals.
  2. Talking about bringing the Kurds into the fight could ignite ethnic conflict, since armed Kurdish groups seek autonomy and are already massed near borders.
  3. US intelligence officials worry that the president’s loose talk and poor judgment are undermining coordinated military and covert operations against Iran.

The Ultimate Deception: How Trump and Bibi Outfoxed Iran

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 4780 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Trump and Netanyahu were straightforward in their plans against Iran, avoiding complex political language. This clear communication was crucial in their strategy.
  2. Iran's top military leaders, who had threatened Israel, believed they were safe and went about their normal lives without fear. This showed a miscalculation of the threat posed by Israel.
  3. The consequence for Iran's leaders was severe, as they were ultimately targeted and eliminated, illustrating the risks of underestimating an opponent.

Germany Opens Big Fat Pie Hole

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 8918 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Germany's Foreign Minister criticized the comments made by J.D. Vance about democracy in Europe. He thinks it's not okay to compare Europe to authoritarian places.
  2. There's a feeling that the political climate is changing, raising questions about what is acceptable to say in big conversations about democracy.
  3. Some people are reacting humorously to this situation, talking about the past and how it seems like the world is getting interesting again.

What Has Been Lost In Israel/Gaza

Castalia • 1019 implied HN points • 11 Jun 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The narrative of Jewish victimhood is changing, as Israel's actions in the conflict have started to challenge the idea of Jewish innocence and justification. Many are struggling with the moral implications of these actions, feeling a sense of grief and complicity.
  2. Hope for reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians is fading. Past optimism around peace agreements now feels unlikely, as historical grievances on both sides make a peaceful resolution seem more distant.
  3. The international community's role as a mediator is diminishing. Israel feels increasingly isolated and perceived as a pariah state, making diplomatic efforts less effective in the face of ongoing violence.

Commentator

Castalia • 639 implied HN points • 08 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Many people believe Biden should drop out of the race because he seems too old and is dragging the party down, but he refuses to listen to that advice.
  2. Electoral shifts in Britain and France show that political power is moving away from the centrist parties and towards the extremes, leaving a lot of uncertainty in how these countries will be governed.
  3. The response to COVID highlighted serious flaws in trusting experts without questioning them, which led to unnecessary restrictions and a loss of trust in government and public health authorities.

On Strategists and Strategies

Comment is Freed • 73 implied HN points • 23 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. A taste for strategy came from political engagement and the desire to champion a side, especially the challenge of persuading people who are indifferent or hostile.
  2. The 1960s generation felt it could drive big social change, with civil rights, anti‑war and student movements creating a strong belief in transformative politics.
  3. Studying the social sciences gave tools to understand society and government, and reading about rebels showed that many idealistic movements fail, stressing the importance of practical, realistic strategy.

The Taiwan posts

Noahpinion • 9706 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Taiwan has a unique culture that combines influences from both Chinese and Japanese traditions. It's famous for its delicious food and vibrant nightlife, making it a fun place to visit.
  2. Taiwan's public health system is highly effective, demonstrated by how well they handled the COVID-19 pandemic. They used strict measures and technology to keep their population safe.
  3. Taiwan is a progressive society, leading in areas like gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights. It's known for being tolerant and open-minded, setting an example in a region often dominated by conservatism.

Toward a Second Cuban Missile Crisis?

Glenn’s Substack • 319 implied HN points • 06 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The US plans to deploy new missiles in Germany that can hit Moscow in just 2-3 minutes. This short response time raises the risk of an accidental nuclear conflict.
  2. In response, Russia may decentralize its decision-making to ensure a quicker reaction against perceived threats, potentially increasing tensions.
  3. The abandonment of the INF Treaty has led to a situation similar to the Cuban Missile Crisis, with no clear benefit to security, highlighting the need for serious discussions about nuclear weapons policies.

Lock Him Up!

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 317 implied HN points • 21 Jan 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. People casually talk about Trump’s latest antics, showing how his behavior dominates everyday conversation and the news.
  2. He floated the idea of taking Greenland and then backed off, demonstrating a pattern of making alarming claims and then denying them.
  3. That unpredictability and grandstanding risks undermining international alliances and invites ridicule from other countries.

Putin's Third Front

Diane Francis • 739 implied HN points • 27 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Putin opened a new front in his conflicts by forming a security agreement with North Korea. This relationship is meant to counteract Western influence.
  2. The agreement between Russia and North Korea has worried several countries in the region, including China, Japan, and South Korea. South Korea's president criticized it as a dangerous move.
  3. The partnership raises tensions since both countries have histories of war, and it could lead to an arms race in the region.

Chartbook 402 Dual-circulation: travels through China in the summer of 2025.

Chartbook • 2818 implied HN points • 05 Aug 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. China's rapid urbanization and industrial growth have created cities and infrastructure on a scale that is unmatched anywhere else in the world. This makes understanding urban life in China crucial for grasping modern global dynamics.
  2. Experiencing life in China can shift your focus away from Western issues, highlighting how unique and self-contained China's culture and economy are. This perspective helps recognize China's central role in shaping global development.
  3. The concept of 'dual circulation' reflects how China engages with the world economically, emphasizing its independent and dynamic growth model, which is different from Western narratives. This indicates a new phase in globalization that moves beyond Western frameworks.

Guatemala Just Ran January 6th In Reverse

Persuasion • 3852 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Guatemala recently experienced a successful pro-democracy movement against a corrupt political establishment.
  2. A largely-indigenous grassroots movement mobilized to demand respect for their votes and succeeded in getting the new president sworn in.
  3. The international community largely overlooked Guatemala's impressive defense of democracy, pointing to various reasons like lack of attention and conflicting support from different political factions.

Control the Food and You Control The World

2nd Smartest Guy in the World • 3282 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Political leaders have used artificial food shortages to control populations throughout history.
  2. Famines like The Holodomor in Ukraine and Sri Lanka's recent crisis highlight intentional starvation tactics by governments.
  3. Support your local farmer, decentralize, and resist illegitimate government actions to combat globalist population control efforts.

Israel Assassinates More Journalists To Hide Its Planned War Crimes

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2784 implied HN points • 11 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Israel has been accused of assassinating journalists to hide its actions in Gaza. This suggests that the country is trying to prevent the world from seeing the truth about its military operations.
  2. The situation has led to many arrests in response to protests against Israel's actions. People, even elderly individuals, are being detained for showing support for those suffering in Gaza.
  3. Some opinions about supporting Israel are considered to be influenced by religious beliefs. This belief system can make it hard to have honest conversations about the situation.

Hitler's Avatar

Diane Francis • 2078 implied HN points • 01 Apr 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Czech President Petr Pavel believes that Europe is in danger of war again, much like it was before World War II. He wants to support Ukraine to prevent further conflict.
  2. Pavel has organized the delivery of a lot of ammunition to Ukraine quickly because he thinks if Ukraine loses, Europe will also be at risk.
  3. European leaders are starting to take the threat from Russia seriously and are discussing actions they might need to take to prepare for possible conflict. Pavel advises readiness, not fear, regarding the situation.

Out of Gas

Doomberg • 7896 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  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.

Saudi Arabia Now Owns Golf, GOP's Fake Outrage at Trump Indictment, "Woke" Companies Republicans Refuse to Boycott, Hero Cop--Except to Other Cops, Sarah Silverman Soars, Marvin Gaye Sings

kareem • 6525 implied HN points • 12 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Saudi Arabia now owns professional golf, raising ethical concerns
  2. Sportswashing in sports is a real issue where countries use sports to improve their image
  3. Ethics can sometimes take a back seat to financial gains in the professional sports industry

"What Was Israel Supposed To Do After October 7?" Is Asking The Wrong Question

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2873 implied HN points • 03 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Instead of asking what Israel should have done after October 7, we should focus on what Palestinians were supposed to do in response to ongoing abuses before that date.
  2. Many people struggle to explain what alternative options Palestinians had, which shows how dire their situation has been.
  3. The real solution for Israel would have been to establish justice and equality rather than continuing cycles of violence and oppression.

Red Dawn in the desert

Lucian Truscott Newsletter • 3184 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The film 'Red Dawn' reflects the current guerrilla warfare being fought against the US in regions like Syria, Iraq, and Jordan.
  2. The attacks on US bases in Iraq and Syria are linked to tensions in the Middle East, especially the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
  3. US military presence in Iraq and Syria is facing backlash from locals and even the countries they aim to defend, leading to calls for better protection for troops.

To Future Generations: They Knew. They All Knew What Was Happening In Gaza.

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2621 implied HN points • 09 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. People in power, like politicians and reporters, knew what was happening in Gaza all along. They had the same information as everyone and chose to ignore it.
  2. Supporting genocide is wrong, no matter what your background is. Calling out or shunning those who advocate for violence against civilians should apply to everyone equally.
  3. The views of those affected by conflict matter. Many people want peace instead of prolonged suffering, but it often feels like they're ignored by those in charge.

Our Sixty Days of Nuclear Chicken Have Begun

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 10440 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The situation in Ukraine is getting riskier as peace talks are expected after Trump's inauguration. This is causing both Russia and the U.S. to escalate their military actions.
  2. Recent attacks involving U.S.-made ATACMS missiles have heightened tensions and alarmed Russian media. They are worried about this being a significant moment in history.
  3. There's a growing fear that we might be approaching a major conflict, with some comparing it to the dangers of the Cuban Missile Crisis. A nuclear response from Russia is now more likely, raising serious concerns.