The hottest Military Affairs Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics
Caitlin’s Newsletter 526 implied HN points 26 Feb 25
  1. Israel has clear long-term goals in the Middle East and they are taking military actions to achieve them. This includes strengthening their position in Syria and Lebanon while pushing for changes in Gaza and the West Bank.
  2. The narrative around military and political support often has misleading implications. Support for certain countries or actions can sometimes be used to justify violence against innocent people.
  3. There are skeptical views on public figures and their true motives, especially in politics and media. People should be cautious about trusting narratives that seem convenient for powerful interests.
Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge 13029 implied HN points 11 Oct 24
  1. Ukraine's situation is worsening as they struggle against renewed Russian advances. Zelensky is seeking support from allies to end the conflict but is facing growing pressures.
  2. There are discussions about a potential ceasefire, but Zelensky is caught between showing strength and the reality of needing to make concessions. He wants to maintain the appearance of not giving up land.
  3. Infighting and low morale are rising among pro-Ukrainian supporters. Many feel that the West won't provide the necessary support to achieve victory against Russia.
Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge 13848 implied HN points 06 Oct 24
  1. Ukrainian troops are facing major issues, like mutinies and lack of resources. Many soldiers are unwilling to fight due to insufficient training and equipment.
  2. The fall of Ugledar shows how serious the losses are for Ukraine. Brigades are being dramatically reduced in numbers, with some units losing nearly all their members.
  3. There's a growing sentiment among Ukrainian soldiers and officials that negotiations might be necessary to end the conflict. Many are feeling the emotional and physical toll of the ongoing war.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2086 implied HN points 07 Feb 25
  1. The narrative around Gaza's conditions has changed, going from denying any destruction to suggesting it needs to be evacuated due to its unlivable state.
  2. There is a shift in how supporters of Israel talk about the situation, moving from defending military actions to now acknowledging the devastation as a reason for evacuating the population.
  3. Controlling the narrative is crucial, as it reflects how the powers involved justify their actions amidst changing circumstances and agendas.
Nonzero Newsletter 542 implied HN points 24 Feb 25
  1. The U.S. adopted a more aggressive stance toward Russia after Biden became president, which changed the situation in Ukraine. This shift is seen as a major factor that contributed to the outbreak of war.
  2. Ukrainian President Zelensky initially aimed to make peace with Russia but faced pressure from both local nationalists and U.S. officials who feared his approach would weaken Ukraine's position.
  3. Trump's presidency was associated with a different strategy towards Russia that allowed for some diplomatic conversations. Some argue that his policies might have prevented the large-scale conflict we see now.
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Glenn’s Substack 1838 implied HN points 06 Sep 24
  1. Scandinavia is shifting from a peaceful region to a frontline for the US military, which might lead to more conflicts. Countries like Norway are hosting US military bases, causing Russia to feel threatened.
  2. The history shows that when one country's security increases, it often makes neighboring countries feel less secure, leading to a security competition. This was the case during the Cold War with Finland and Sweden acting as neutral states to reduce tensions.
  3. NATO's expansion, including Sweden and Finland joining, is seen by some as a major mistake. It might actually increase tensions rather than provide security, as past experiences suggest that surrounding a country with military alliances can provoke it.
Comment is Freed 109 implied HN points 22 Feb 25
  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 Chris Hedges Report 453 implied HN points 01 Feb 25
  1. Gaza is facing a severe humanitarian crisis with no clean water or food, leading to widespread sickness and suffering among its population.
  2. The ongoing violence and destruction in Gaza are seen as part of a larger strategy to control resources and land, with little support from international allies to stop it.
  3. Historical patterns of genocide and oppression are highlighted, stressing that current actions are not unique, but rather resemble past atrocities committed by powerful nations against marginalized groups.
steigan.no 5 implied HN points 05 Mar 25
  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.
All-Source Intelligence Fusion 529 implied HN points 25 Jan 25
  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.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 2768 implied HN points 07 Dec 24
  1. H.R. McMaster believes it's important for Americans to see all sides of Donald Trump's presidency, not just the good or the bad.
  2. McMaster shares insights about his experiences during Trump's first foreign trip, highlighting how Trump thinks and makes decisions.
  3. He's hosting a book club discussion about his book 'At War with Ourselves,' focusing on his time as National Security Adviser and the challenges faced during that period.
Glenn’s Substack 739 implied HN points 22 Aug 24
  1. NATO's involvement in the war may blur the lines between a proxy war and direct conflict, raising concerns about escalation.
  2. Russia has been cautious in its response to NATO actions, as retaliating could lead to a larger global conflict.
  3. The recent invasion of Kursk by Ukraine and NATO has led to significant Ukrainian casualties and weakened defensive positions, with NATO's role now more apparent.
Glenn’s Substack 519 implied HN points 30 Aug 24
  1. Both Israel and Ukraine are in conflicts they can't win and are escalating their actions instead of seeking peace. This makes the situation more dangerous.
  2. The countries are trying to involve the US more deeply in their wars, hoping that American support will change their fortunes.
  3. There is a lack of serious discussions or diplomatic efforts to address the escalating tensions, which could lead to a wider conflict.
Fisted by Foucault 206 implied HN points 26 Jan 25
  1. The US needs to take Taiwan's defense seriously to prevent China from taking over. Taiwan is crucial for the US's credibility and is seen as a key part of stopping China's rise as a superpower.
  2. Trump's focus on acquiring Greenland shows the US's need for strategic resources. Greenland has valuable minerals and its location is important for military surveillance against threats from Russia and China.
  3. Funding for think tanks largely comes from special interests and foreign governments. This can affect the objectivity and independence of their research, raising concerns about who really influences US foreign policy.
Aaron Mate 258 implied HN points 29 Jan 25
  1. Tulsi Gabbard has been criticized for her views on Syria, with some claiming she is not aligned with US intelligence. However, her statements often match the intelligence community's skepticism about certain chemical weapons allegations against the Assad government.
  2. Gabbard has expressed concerns that overthrowing Assad could lead to chaos in Syria, potentially empowering extremist groups like Al-Qaeda. This viewpoint was echoed by former President Trump when he halted CIA support for rebel groups in Syria.
  3. The accusations against Gabbard often stem from her past meeting with Assad and her criticism of US military actions. She argues that skepticism should be exercised when decisions about war are made based on potentially flawed intelligence.
Doomberg 5101 implied HN points 11 Dec 24
  1. Tajikistan's economy relies heavily on remittances from migrant workers in Russia, making the relationship between the two countries very important.
  2. China has invested a lot in Tajikistan and benefits from its natural resources, showing how connected these countries are through trade.
  3. Recent export restrictions by China on critical minerals like antimony can affect the US, especially in military and technology sectors, increasing concerns in the Pentagon.
TK News by Matt Taibbi 1438 implied HN points 23 Nov 24
  1. The use of missiles in Ukraine is escalating, with one missile being identified as potentially the first intercontinental ballistic missile used in a conflict. This is a significant step in warfare technology.
  2. Russia has updated its nuclear doctrine to include non-nuclear states in conflicts with its territory, raising fears that nuclear weapons could be used against Ukraine.
  3. Amid the serious global events, some people seem unbothered or unaware of the impact this escalation has on international relations and security.
ChinaTalk 681 implied HN points 22 Oct 24
  1. Trump's foreign policy could increase the risk of conflict. Instead of promoting peace, his approach may lead to war by weakening alliances.
  2. His plans for Ukraine and Taiwan involve risky deals that could encourage aggression from Russia and China. This could make the U.S. less trusted by its allies and more likely to be dragged into a war.
  3. Maintaining a strong military and solid international relationships is key to avoiding World War III. A weak approach to foreign policy might upset the balance of power and lead to catastrophic outcomes.
Glenn’s Substack 439 implied HN points 04 Jul 24
  1. NATO is struggling in Ukraine and needs to either negotiate or increase its military involvement.
  2. The situation is tense and we may be close to a direct conflict between NATO and Russia.
  3. Political issues in Western countries are worsening, but NATO continues to escalate the situation instead of seeking dialogue.
Diane Francis 819 implied HN points 13 May 24
  1. French President Macron is ready to send troops to support Ukraine if they ask for help. This shows strong support for Ukraine against Russia.
  2. Britain is allowing Ukraine to use British weapons to attack Russian targets, which raises the stakes in the conflict.
  3. Putin is threatening to use nuclear weapons as a scare tactic after facing setbacks in battle, and leaders like Zelensky want to keep pressure on him to prevent this threat.
Phillips’s Newsletter 188 implied HN points 29 Dec 24
  1. The war is affecting many countries globally, not just in Europe. Attacks on infrastructure show how serious the situation has become.
  2. North Korean soldiers are facing heavy casualties fighting in Ukraine, which raises concerns about their future and the support they might be getting from Russia.
  3. Russia's military actions are impacting its relationship with other countries. In one incident, Russian forces shot down an Azerbaijani passenger plane, highlighting their unstable control in the region.
Nonzero Newsletter 519 implied HN points 18 Oct 24
  1. Israel has an opportunity to declare victory after the death of a key Hamas leader, which might allow for a ceasefire and de-escalation of conflict.
  2. The U.S. has sent troops and missile defense systems to Israel, but this support may encourage Israel to continue its aggressive actions rather than seek peace.
  3. There are concerns that U.S. military support for Israel could drag the U.S. into broader conflicts and worsen America's global reputation.
Diane Francis 1199 implied HN points 15 Jan 24
  1. Europe is realizing the serious threat Russia poses, leading to stronger military support for Ukraine. Countries like Germany and the UK are stepping up with more weapons and defenses.
  2. Despite heavy losses, Ukraine is making gains and has the support of its allies. They believe that if they keep fighting, they can defeat Russia and reclaim their land.
  3. There's growing unity among European nations, and many are considering tough measures like seizing Russian assets to help Ukraine. Leaders are optimistic about ultimate victory against Russia's aggression.
TP’s Substack 57 implied HN points 05 Jan 25
  1. China is developing advanced aircraft like the J-36, which is expected to have significant capabilities, including powerful radar and electronic warfare systems. This could change the balance of air power in the region.
  2. The J-36's range allows it to extend China's air dominance much further away from its borders, making it vital for potential military operations in areas like Guam and the South China Sea.
  3. This military advancement may pressure the U.S. to upgrade its own aircraft programs, potentially delaying their timelines and affecting their ability to defend allies in East Asia.
Thinking about... 622 implied HN points 24 Nov 24
  1. Pete Hegseth, who is nominated for a key defense position, has no real experience in national security or running large organizations.
  2. He doesn't recognize global threats to America and has a narrow view on military alliances, believing they are unnecessary.
  3. Hegseth promotes a military shaped by personal beliefs rather than expertise, which could lead to serious issues in defense strategy.
Aaron Mate 207 implied HN points 03 Nov 24
  1. The US government initially believed that its support for Ukraine would effectively counter Russia's advances. However, their recent admission shows that this support did not yield the expected results.
  2. After a significant funding boost, officials now realize that Russia is still making territorial gains in Ukraine, contrary to their earlier predictions.
  3. The situation has prompted discussions about the need for negotiations with Russia, a shift from previous views that such talks would be premature.
Glenn’s Substack 179 implied HN points 19 Jun 24
  1. The West is not fully aware of the risks it faces, which could lead to major conflicts.
  2. Ignoring signs of rising tensions might result in bigger problems for everyone.
  3. It's important for leaders to engage in dialogue and understand global dynamics better to avoid war.
Phillips’s Newsletter 177 implied HN points 27 Oct 24
  1. Democracy is fragile, as shown by the situation in Georgia where a government can manipulate elections and suppress dissent to maintain power. This highlights the importance of being vigilant to protect democratic systems.
  2. The fight for Ukraine's freedom is crucial for the future of democracy in Europe. If Ukraine loses, it could lead to a worsening decline of democratic values across the continent.
  3. There are concerning connections between certain political movements in the U.S. and leaders who support authoritarian regimes. This could influence U.S. foreign policy and the support for Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression.
Diane Francis 1618 implied HN points 05 Jun 23
  1. Canada is giving little military support to Ukraine, especially compared to what other countries like the US are doing. The government has also not met its NATO defense spending commitments.
  2. Trudeau's government lacks expertise, hiring outside consultants for guidance and has made several decisions that hurt Canada's energy sector and military capabilities. This raises concerns about national security.
  3. There are serious issues of foreign influence on Canadian politics, especially from China, which have not been adequately addressed by Trudeau and his administration.
JoeWrote 66 implied HN points 17 Dec 24
  1. The concept of 'self-defense' is often misused to justify violent actions, including genocide. Many times, countries or groups claim they are protecting themselves while their actions actually harm innocent people.
  2. History shows that justifications for violence, like 'self-defense', have been used in various genocides, such as the Armenian Genocide and the Holocaust. These tragedies remind us that this reasoning can lead to horrific outcomes.
  3. It's important to question the narrative of self-defense when it leads to widespread harm. We should critically evaluate claims made by powerful entities and hold them accountable for their actions.
steigan.no 5 implied HN points 16 Feb 25
  1. Syria is facing severe challenges from terrorists, leading to dire human rights abuses and a lack of media coverage. Many people are suffering and there seems to be no solution in sight.
  2. The importance of good fatty acids for brain health is emphasized, particularly the balance between omega-6 and omega-3. Proper intake is crucial for mental well-being.
  3. With ongoing wars and conflicts in various regions, there’s a looming risk that new proxy wars could arise in lesser-known places, influenced by international politics and major powers.
Phillips’s Newsletter 174 implied HN points 13 Oct 24
  1. Ukrainians feel worried about their support from the U.S. as the upcoming presidential election could lead to less aid if Trump wins. There's a real fear of feeling abandoned during the war.
  2. Despite their worries, Ukraine is showing strong efforts in their military strategy by successfully attacking Russian supply lines, demonstrating they can hit key targets effectively.
  3. America's support for Ukraine remains uncertain, with some leaders expressing no appetite for further aid. This makes it hard for Ukraine to feel secure as they fight for their independence.
steigan.no 5 implied HN points 14 Feb 25
  1. A majority of Ukrainians now prefer negotiating a quick peace instead of continuing the war, showing a significant shift in public opinion after years of conflict.
  2. The economic impacts of the war are heavily burdening European countries, as they are taking on the costs while the United States benefits economically from the situation.
  3. China is advancing its space program with ambitious plans, including a manned moon base and potential missions to Mars, aiming to establish itself as a leader in space exploration.
Diane Francis 939 implied HN points 31 Jul 23
  1. Wagner, a private military group, is a key part of Putin's strategy and makes a lot of money from warfare and operations around the world.
  2. Putin uses Wagner not just for military actions but also to gain influence and control over resources in African countries, often through illegal means.
  3. Despite issues in Ukraine, Putin remains strong because of his partnerships and the ongoing power of groups like Wagner in the global landscape.
John’s Substack 7 implied HN points 06 Feb 25
  1. The discussion was about Trump's approach to Israel and Ukraine. It happened just before Trump announced a controversial military plan for Gaza.
  2. The plan discussed was considered absurd and morally wrong, indicating strong disapproval.
  3. More details about this plan will be talked about in future discussions, suggesting it's an important topic to watch.
Diane Francis 1099 implied HN points 24 Jun 23
  1. Prigozhin, a Russian warlord, openly rebelled against the government, criticizing the war in Ukraine as unjust and driven by greed.
  2. His actions have created unrest within Russia, as some military units are refusing to fight against him, which could weaken Putin's hold on power.
  3. Even if Prigozhin fails in his rebellion, he has already challenged Putin, highlighting discontent and a potential shift in power dynamics within Russia.
Seymour Hersh 79 implied HN points 26 Nov 24
  1. Biden is feeling frustrated as he deals with a tough situation in Ukraine while other Democratic leaders are stepping back from him. There are concerns about whether he can manage the ongoing conflict and his future as a president.
  2. He made controversial decisions to provide advanced weaponry to Ukraine, leading to escalations from Russia and raising fears of a larger global conflict. People are worried about the humanitarian impact of using landmines in the war.
  3. There's talk that Trump has been communicating informally with Putin about ways to potentially end the war. Some experts believe Putin is waiting for the right moment to negotiate, while Biden continues to face criticism for his foreign policy approach.
Diane Francis 579 implied HN points 14 Dec 23
  1. Nicolas Maduro, the president of Venezuela, is a strong ally of Putin and has worsened his country's economy despite its oil wealth.
  2. Maduro has allowed Russian companies and military groups to operate in Venezuela, contributing to his regime's security and resource extraction.
  3. Recently, Maduro claimed land in Guyana and threatened invasion, which is seen as a distraction from his own economic issues and has raised tensions in the region.
Diane Francis 779 implied HN points 14 Aug 23
  1. South Korea has increased its support for Ukraine, marking a significant shift in its international stance. This is partly due to South Korea's own history of being affected by Russian aggression during the Korean War.
  2. The country has been exporting military supplies to Ukraine and is officially joining its alliance, showcasing its readiness to confront threats from North Korea and Russia.
  3. A South Korean soldier, Sgt Kim Jae-kyung, has actively campaigned for support of Ukraine, reminding people that South Korea received help from many nations in its own time of need.
Diane Francis 939 implied HN points 03 Jul 23
  1. Ramzan Kadyrov, a leader in Chechnya, has shown loyalty to Putin but could also cause trouble in the North Caucasus region. His past actions and armed forces make him a figure to watch closely.
  2. The North Caucasus is home to many non-Russian people who have faced harsh treatment. As Russia weakens, there could be movements for independence in this area.
  3. Many people in the North Caucasus are unhappy with Russia's military actions, especially since they have lost many young men in the conflict. This growing resentment might lead to changes in the region soon.