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Wang Yi in DC; More videos of US-China military close encounters; PRC vetoes UN resolution; Patriotic education law

Sinocism • 982 implied HN points • 26 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics US-China Relations Foreign Relations National Security
  1. Expectations low for breakthrough in US-China relations during Wang Yi's visit to DC
  2. Both US and PRC releasing videos of close military encounters, raising tensions
  3. PRC vetoing UN resolution on Palestinian question and implementing a new Patriotic Education Law

Putin's Push

Diane Francis • 1059 implied HN points • 28 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Military Strategy International relations Geopolitics Conflict resolution National Security
  1. Putin is under pressure to improve Russia's military situation quickly. His aggressive tactics are leading to more risks and causing problems for his already strained forces.
  2. Russian military leaders face issues with payments and morale, creating a culture of incompetence. Some officers even sold information to Ukraine, showing a lack of trust and discipline.
  3. Ukraine is gaining ground with new support from Western weapons, making it harder for Russia to maintain control, especially in Crimea. This shift could lead to significant changes in power if Ukraine succeeds.

A Tale of Two 4-Stars

CDR Salamander • 982 implied HN points • 03 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military Foreign Relations Leadership Strategic Planning National Security
  1. The People's Republic of China is strategically moving to become the premier world power.
  2. Admiral Charles A. Richard provides a fact-based, direct analysis of China's military capabilities and suggests proper responses.
  3. General Mark Milley's approach to discussing China's rise lacks clear analysis and consistency compared to Admiral Richard.

Commentator

Castalia • 339 implied HN points • 20 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy National Security International relations Legislation Political Analysis
  1. The relationship between the US and Israel is strained, especially over the situation in Rafah. Netanyahu seems more focused on his political survival than on international alliances.
  2. The CIA has had deep involvement in Ukraine long before the full-scale invasion, which changes how we understand the war. Ukraine was actively seeking US support and sharing intelligence to strengthen its position against Russia.
  3. There's a new push in the US to ban TikTok due to national security concerns. This reflects a shift toward more government control over technology and the internet, especially regarding threats posed by foreign entities like China.
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Weekend Update #102: Bad News and Good News

Phillips’s Newsletter • 174 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy National Security Political Commentary Military Affairs
  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.

Can Trump get a deal on Ukraine?

Comment is Freed • 91 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy National Security Immigration Bipartisanship
  1. Trump might push for a deal with Ukraine, but it could favor Putin more than Ukraine itself. This raises concerns for European allies who depend on Ukraine's resistance against Russia.
  2. Ukraine is not a top priority for Trump, as his main focus lies on domestic issues like immigration, taxes, and trade with China. His administration may not have clear plans for Ukraine yet.
  3. If Trump is unable to secure a peace deal, there are questions about how much support he will continue to offer Ukraine. This uncertainty creates worries for Ukraine's future security and recovery.

The Philippines and the People's Republic at Center Stage with Ray Powell on Midrats

CDR Salamander • 511 implied HN points • 14 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics National Security
  1. Serious developments are happening between The Philippines and the Peoples Republic of China in the Western Pacific.
  2. The Philippines is at the center of the main game in the Western Pacific.
  3. Ray Powell, with his extensive experience in the U.S. Air Force, is discussing the ongoing story between these two nations.

Middle East Morass

Diane Francis • 839 implied HN points • 19 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Middle East Geopolitics National Security Humanitarian Issues
  1. Joe Biden supported Israel while also stressing the need to avoid mistakes like those made after 9/11. He warned that anger shouldn't lead to prolonged conflict that causes more instability.
  2. The situation in the Middle East is tense, with Iran and other countries expressing aggression towards Israel. Neighboring countries like Jordan and Egypt are worried about an influx of Palestinian refugees due to potential violence.
  3. There is a call for a regional summit to address the ongoing crisis and seek a two-state solution. A collective effort from countries like Egypt and Saudi Arabia is seen as crucial for peace.

What I Learned about how the U.S. Handled the Run-Up to Russia's Invasion of Ukraine

Drezner’s World • 845 implied HN points • 27 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Intelligence Sanctions National Security Geopolitics
  1. The U.S. believed Putin invaded Ukraine due to perceptions of Russian weakness, not U.S. weakness.
  2. Intelligence was used effectively by the Biden administration to persuade allies and delay Russia's invasion.
  3. Biden officials concluded that pre-emptive sanctions wouldn't have deterred Russia and focused on seizing oligarchs' assets to highlight corruption.

Climate Policy 2023: Walls, Guns And Prisons

¡Do Not Panic! • 628 implied HN points • 30 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Climate Policy National Security Geopolitics Global Cooperation Inequality
  1. A lot is being done about climate change, but it's not branded as climate policy.
  2. Climate policy is more about prioritizing industry profits, nationalism, and order maintenance than cutting fossil fuel emissions.
  3. Under capitalist climate policy, there's an incentive to weaken collective structures and increase private provisions for safety.

We need to talk about micro-treason

Jeff Giesea • 219 implied HN points • 08 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Security Government Public Opinion Social media International relations
  1. Using TikTok can be seen as a security risk because it is owned by a Chinese company. Many people believe it could contribute to a national security threat if many users stay connected.
  2. The idea of 'micro-treason' is introduced to describe small actions that collectively make a country vulnerable. This term helps us discuss the impact of seemingly harmless behaviors.
  3. It's important for society to be more aware of actions that could harm national security, even if those actions seem small at an individual level. We need to have conversations about these issues to protect our country.

Trump's Anschluss

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 18 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Political Commentary National Security Geopolitics
  1. Trump believes the Panama Canal deal was a mistake and feels the U.S. should have better control over it for economic security. He argues that the canal's management by China is unfair to the U.S.
  2. He emphasizes the need for America to impose tariffs on Canada and Mexico, expressing dissatisfaction over perceived imbalances and unfair trade practices.
  3. Trump suggests that acquiring Greenland would bolster U.S. national security and could shift power dynamics involving Russia and China, hinting at a desire for greater influence in the region.

Chinese balloon was not spying, US gov't admits months after manufactured crisis

Geopolitical Economy Report • 797 implied HN points • 21 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy Cold War Surveillance National Security
  1. The US government admitted that the Chinese balloon incident was not related to spying, but likely due to strong winds, debunking the initial accusations.
  2. The media and US government exaggerated the situation, using it to create a Cold War-like propaganda against China, though evidence later proved otherwise.
  3. Despite the claims of surveillance capabilities, subsequent analysis showed that the balloon's sensors were never activated over US territory, making the entire scandal a manufactured crisis.

Former Obama CIA Chief Backs Nikki Haley

All-Source Intelligence Fusion • 773 implied HN points • 20 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Intelligence Government National Security Campaign
  1. Former Obama CIA Chief Michael Morell publicly supports Nikki Haley's presidential campaign with both donations and endorsements.
  2. Morell organized efforts to shape the 2020 presidential election by discrediting a report on Hunter Biden, a move tied to intelligence officials interfacing with the Biden campaign.
  3. Several high-ranking former intelligence and national security officials, including Michael Morell and Douglas Feith, are backing Nikki Haley's campaign for president despite limited voter support.

January 13, 2025

Letters from an American • 16 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Security Legislation Elections Political parties Media
  1. The incoming Trump administration is trying to fill key roles in national security with people who are loyal to him. This raises concerns about national security because experts are being replaced by those who may not have the necessary experience.
  2. Republicans are working on a big budget deal that includes cuts to social programs while trying to raise the national debt limit. This could be complicated because they still need support from members who don't want to increase the debt.
  3. A new media outlet called 'The Contrarian' has been created by journalists who want to provide honest news and analysis opposed to the current political climate. They aim to defend democracy and criticize the influence of wealthy owners on traditional media.

The Superhero Theory of Defense

Investing 101 • 32 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War Politics Geopolitics Military Strategy Foreign Policy National Security
  1. Strong powers attract challenges, leading to conflicts. This idea is similar to how superheroes create villains by existing.
  2. Not all conflicts are caused by mistakes. Some threats may exist regardless of actions taken, and understanding these threats is vital.
  3. Infrastructure like diplomacy can handle some conflicts, but current global tensions may require a stronger response or action to protect values and interests.

Are North Korean Troops Fighting for Russia a Sign of "Desperation"?

Phillips’s Newsletter • 86 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Military Affairs Geopolitics Conflict Studies National Security
  1. North Korean troops are now confirmed to be fighting for Russia in Ukraine. This development shows the lengths Russia is going to in order to sustain its military efforts.
  2. While Ukraine’s allies seem uncertain about how to best support them, Putin is making bold moves, like bringing in North Koreans, to try and gain an advantage.
  3. Putin’s decisions can often backfire. For instance, his direct attacks in the Kharkiv offensive were seen as strategic mistakes that did not pay off.

Whatever the Spook State Wants...

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 115 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Surveillance Legislation Civil Liberties National Security Political Reforms
  1. There's a concern about how the government can collect data from everyday Americans without a warrant. This is done through something called 'incidental collection,' which means they can gather information without specifically targeting someone.
  2. Politicians like Speaker Mike Johnson seem to change their views on surveillance after receiving private briefings. It raises questions about accountability and whether they truly represent the people's concerns after such meetings.
  3. Tulsi Gabbard, once an opponent of domestic surveillance, has shifted her stance. There are hints that lobbying from the GOP influenced her change, calling into question how much power lobbyists have over our leaders' decisions.

Banning TikTok

Points And Figures • 506 implied HN points • 13 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Regulation Foreign Relations National Security Civil Liberties Social media
  1. Banning TikTok raises concerns about government overreach and control over private businesses.
  2. There are complex implications related to the power and influence of Chinese technology and communism in the US.
  3. Questions arise about the balance between individual freedoms and safety when it comes to regulating social media platforms like TikTok.

Europe/Germany Has Failed (Because Ukraine Did Better Than Expected)

Phillips’s Newsletter • 91 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics International relations European Politics National Security Military Strategy Geopolitics
  1. Europe has struggled to respond effectively to major challenges, leading to divisions and inaction among its countries and institutions.
  2. The 'Zeitenwende' speech by Germany's Chancellor Scholz marked a significant moment, but it hasn't led to the expected changes in Europe's stance after the invasion of Ukraine.
  3. There are doubts about whether Europe can succeed as a united entity in the face of these challenges, especially when relying on external influences to force action.

VCs Take Heat for China Deals…Down Rounds Up in 2023…Lightspeed in the VC Directory

Newcomer • 235 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
💼 Business Venture Capital Geopolitics Investments National Security Technology
  1. US VCs face scrutiny for investing in Chinese companies linked to national defense technologies.
  2. There is concern about US venture capital flows aiding China's advancements in chips and AI, posing national security risks.
  3. Some VCs may have overlooked the potential negative impacts of their investments on US interests and security.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 28.01.2025

steigan.no • 7 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Political Analysis National Security Public Opinion
  1. Rwanda is expanding into the Kivu provinces of the DRC, with support from Western countries. This has led to significant control over mineral resources in the area.
  2. The German economy is struggling due to reduced growth and increasing global competition, especially from Chinese car manufacturers. Many companies are laying off workers and there seems to be no clear plan for recovery.
  3. The partnership between Russia and Iran is strengthening as both seek to bypass Western sanctions. This agreement may create economic ties that could affect global trade and politics.

The Logic of the Chips Escalation

Policy Tensor • 393 implied HN points • 23 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Security Cybersecurity Foreign Relations Military Strategy Government Policy
  1. The concentration of authority in the national security advisor's office is vital for the security state's functioning.
  2. The chips escalation is driven by concerns over the cyber security of US nuclear command and control.
  3. Maintaining US primacy in the cyber realm is crucial to ensure the credibility of US nuclear deterrence.

TikTok Ban - Is Congress For Real?

ChinaTalk • 340 implied HN points • 14 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Social media National Security Tech industry Bipartisan Politics
  1. The US House of Representatives voted in favor of a bill to force ByteDance to sell TikTok or cease its operation in the US within 180 days.
  2. TikTok's potential for political manipulation raised concerns, leading to bipartisan support for the bill in Congress.
  3. The TikTok ban marks the end of an era in US-China tech relations, highlighting the complexities of balancing national security with commercial interests.

Hope For A Deal between Nippon Steel and the Steelworkers Union Before Election Day

Japan Economy Watch • 159 implied HN points • 27 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election National Security Legislation Foreign Relations Trade
  1. There is hope for a deal between Nippon Steel and the Steelworkers Union before Election Day to avoid national security issues and ease political tensions.
  2. Election year politics heavily influence decisions, with implications for US-Japan relations and national security.
  3. Challenges exist in making the deal, including union concerns about potential job losses and the need for guarantees, but both sides are working towards a resolution.

NSA FOIA Submitted

FOIA Around And Find Out • 373 implied HN points • 23 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government National Security Research Privacy
  1. Research suggests more transparency is needed regarding activities at the NSA, including possible Russian involvement from 2015-2016.
  2. Exploration of the involvement of individuals like Rodney Joffe in government data programs is an intriguing avenue of inquiry.
  3. FOIA requests have been resubmitted for records related to various entities that appear to have connections to US Intelligence and potential data collection activities.

My latest column: Why does China’s most secretive spy agency no longer wish to remain clandestine?

Wang Xiangwei's Thought of the Day on China • 176 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics China National Security Espionage Xi Jinping Global relations
  1. China's Ministry of State Security (MSS) is becoming more open and public under President Xi Jinping, shifting focus to national security since 2018.
  2. New spy chief Chen Yixin is pushing for MSS to take a high-profile role, being close to Xi Jinping and advocating for the agency's visibility.
  3. China's party leadership is considering adding Xi Jinping Thought on National Security as a new pillar, with MSS potentially aiming to support this initiative.

Russia's Game of Thrones

Diane Francis • 619 implied HN points • 10 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics National Security Conflict Studies Political Power Regime Change
  1. Putin's rule in Russia is marked by extreme paranoia and violence, with rival factions forming amid fears of losing power. Assassination and other brutal tactics are used to silence opposition.
  2. A variety of illegal armed groups are emerging, each with their own goals, some wanting to overthrow Putin and others preparing for chaos after his rule. This shows a deep divide among the elite and a potential shift in power.
  3. Political dynamics in Russia are changing, with increasing challenges to Putin's authority. Historical patterns suggest that if he loses a war or power, he could be replaced through backdoor negotiations or even force.

Nói chuyện tại Hội đồng Lý luận TW

Thái | Hacker | Kỹ sư tin tặc • 898 implied HN points • 17 Oct 22
🌍 World Politics Cybersecurity National Security Policy International relations Government
  1. Attending unexpected events can lead to valuable opportunities and insights.
  2. Being open to new experiences can help overcome initial hesitations and lead to positive outcomes.
  3. Engaging with diverse audiences and sharing valuable perspectives can foster mutual respect and meaningful conversations.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 29.01.2025

steigan.no • 5 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Diplomacy National Security Election politics Military Affairs
  1. Norway plays a crucial role in supplying resources to the EU, particularly natural gas, which makes it an essential partner for European energy security.
  2. There's concern that without strong negotiations, Ukraine's existence could be threatened, highlighting the urgency of peace talks with Russia.
  3. A new AI model from China has been developed that challenges the US's dominance in technology, raising questions about the future of artificial intelligence development.

Russia Has Lost the War

Diane Francis • 1039 implied HN points • 29 Aug 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Military conflict International relations National Security Diplomacy
  1. Russia has faced significant losses in the conflict, both militarily and in public opinion. Many Russians are now aware that the war is not going as promised, and casualties are high.
  2. Ukraine is receiving strong support from Western countries and is strategically pushing back against Russian forces. Ukraine's leadership has rallied its people and the globe around a strong defense of their territory.
  3. Putin's attempts to control the narrative and gain support from allies are failing. Countries like China and India are distancing themselves, and the global stance against Russia's actions is getting stronger.

Biden to deploy American boots on the ground in Gaza, in accommodating the demands of a fanatical voting base

The Dossier • 284 implied HN points • 07 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Election Congress National Security
  1. President Biden plans to deploy American troops to Gaza to build a port, risking their safety in a dangerous war zone.
  2. The decision to involve the military in Gaza construction raises concerns over the misuse of resources and lack of Congressional oversight.
  3. Political motives, such as appealing to voters in crucial swing states, may be a driving force behind the deployment of troops in Gaza.