The hottest Security Studies Substack posts right now

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Top U.S. Politics Topics

SITREP 10/5/24: Post-Ugledar Landscape Unfurls into Dark Ukrainian Future

Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge • 13848 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Studies Military Affairs Geopolitics Security Studies
  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.

The Nord Stream Anniversary & Europe’s Stockholm Syndrome

Glenn’s Substack • 1798 implied HN points • 27 Sep 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Security Studies Military Strategy Energy Politics
  1. The Nord Stream pipeline attack severed Europe's energy ties with Russia, leading to significant economic changes for both regions.
  2. Initially, the US and NATO blamed Russia for the attack, but later reports suggested that Ukraine might have been involved while evidence pointed to a possible US connection.
  3. As the narrative around the attack evolved, European nations began to turn against each other, showing tensions and doubts about their alliances.

The price of poker just went up

Unreported Truths • 35 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Studies Security Studies
  1. Israel has launched a major attack on Iran's military and nuclear facilities. This move is seen as an all-out war rather than a warning, aiming to destroy Iran's nuclear capabilities and leadership.
  2. The attack has so far resulted in significant damage to Iran, including the confirmation of top military officials' deaths. However, Iran has not retaliated effectively, and its air force has been heavily impacted.
  3. While Israel has gained a tactical advantage, the long-term consequences of this attack are uncertain. It remains to be seen if Israel's strategy will lead to a significant change in Iran's nuclear ambitions or if it will strengthen Iran's resolve to pursue a nuclear program.

Israel and Nuclear Weapons

John’s Substack • 5 implied HN points • 03 Mar 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Middle East Security Studies Geopolitics
  1. Israel has a nuclear deterrent that plays a crucial role in its national security. This means that having nuclear weapons helps protect Israel from potential threats.
  2. The competition between Israel and Iran is significantly influenced by nuclear weapons. This rivalry affects both countries' strategies and military decisions.
  3. Understanding how nuclear weapons shape international relations is key to grasping the complexities of Middle Eastern politics. It adds another layer to the security concerns in the region.

Time for NATO to Retire?

Glenn’s Substack • 1199 implied HN points • 24 Sep 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Security Studies Geopolitics Military Alliances Historical context
  1. NATO is seen by some as outdated and stuck in Cold War thinking. It focuses on dividing the world into good and evil, which may not lead to real security.
  2. The expansion of NATO has created conflicts rather than resolving them. This approach often leads to more militarization and tensions with countries like Russia.
  3. There's a call for a new way of thinking about security that includes cooperation with former adversaries instead of forming exclusive military alliances.
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The Militarisation of Scandinavia & the Great Northern War 2.0

Glenn’s Substack • 1838 implied HN points • 06 Sep 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Military Affairs International relations Conflict Studies Security Studies
  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.

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.

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.

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.

The American Empire is Losing Money in Europe. Will It Abandon Europe?

Glenn’s Substack • 859 implied HN points • 23 Aug 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Economics Political Economy Security Studies
  1. Europe is struggling because it is not adapting to the new multipolar world. Instead of building ties with other major economies, it is relying heavily on the U.S., which makes it weaker.
  2. Countries around the world are trying to diversify their economic connections to avoid too much dependence on a single superpower. Europe, on the other hand, is falling behind by sticking closely to U.S. interests.
  3. As the U.S. shifts its focus to Asia, Europe risks losing its political and economic relevance. If Europe doesn’t change its approach, it might find itself increasingly sidelined.

"Kursk changed the war"

Glenn’s Substack • 539 implied HN points • 29 Aug 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Military conflict Diplomacy Geopolitics Security Studies
  1. The situation is tense between NATO and Russia, with both sides pretending not to be in a direct conflict. This makes it seem like a war is already taking place without formal recognition.
  2. Recent attacks on Russian territory and nuclear plants are pushing the situation closer to nuclear war. This escalation raises serious concerns about global safety.
  3. The American government's silence on these actions raises questions about their real intentions and strategy in the region. It makes people wonder how they plan to address these conflicts.

German Dysfunction

Diane Francis • 1079 implied HN points • 05 Aug 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics European Politics Defense Policy Security Studies
  1. Germany, despite being the richest and largest economy in Europe, has been slow to take charge in defending against Russian aggression.
  2. Recent military budget cuts indicate a lack of commitment to support Ukraine effectively, raising concerns about Germany's leadership role in Europe.
  3. Historical factors like post-war guilt and strong business ties to Russia influence Germany's cautious stance towards military involvement.

Quand ça s’arrêtera en Ukraine, qui éteindra les lumières?

Trying to Understand the World • 1 implied HN point • 23 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict resolution Diplomacy Security Studies Geopolitics
  1. Ending a war involves distinct steps, like ceasefires or treaties, and all parties must genuinely want to stop fighting for it to work.
  2. Negotiations can be tricky because different groups might have different reasons for agreeing to talk, and misunderstandings can lead to more conflict.
  3. Successful agreements need to reflect the actual situation on the ground and have buy-in from all involved, or they might fall apart quickly.

Destroying Ukraine with Idealism

Glenn’s Substack • 1019 implied HN points • 02 Jul 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Security Studies NATO Geopolitics Conflict analysis
  1. Ukraine's desire to join NATO is an idealistic view that ignores the reality of global power dynamics. Instead of thinking about what should be, it's important to consider how nations actually function and secure their interests.
  2. Pushing for NATO expansion in Ukraine can escalate conflict and create a cycle of tension. It suggests to Russia that NATO is a direct threat, leading to a need for military intervention.
  3. The argument that Ukraine has a right to join NATO oversimplifies a complex situation. Real peace might come from recognizing the security concerns of all parties rather than insisting on alliance expansion that could lead to further instability.

Putin's Third Front

Diane Francis • 739 implied HN points • 27 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Studies Security Studies Geopolitics Military Alliances
  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.

How Can Ukraine's Security Be Guaranteed?

Comment is Freed • 86 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Security Studies European Politics Conflict resolution Defense Policy
  1. Security guarantees are important for protecting vulnerable nations like Ukraine from aggression. They help reassure those nations that allies will come to their aid if needed.
  2. Ukraine's past experiences, like the Budapest Memorandum, make them skeptical about security promises. When international support was needed, Ukraine found itself largely abandoned.
  3. To truly deter future aggression, Ukraine needs strong commitments from NATO or a substantial multinational force. This could help prevent another attack and show that the international community stands with Ukraine.

China Waits

Diane Francis • 1638 implied HN points • 08 Apr 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Conflict Studies Foreign Policy Security Studies
  1. China is benefiting from Russia's war by getting cheap energy while avoiding direct involvement. It is using this situation to increase its influence while waiting for the right moment to act.
  2. If Russia's power weakens, China may try to take back areas like Manchuria, which holds many resources. This territory has been historically important to China.
  3. While Russia struggles in the war, China is carefully repositioning itself to strengthen its economy and global influence, especially as it faces challenges from the West.

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

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

The Vatnik Tell

Phillips’s Newsletter • 128 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Studies Political theory Geopolitics Security Studies
  1. The term 'non-aligned' is a key point in discussions about Ukraine's future and its relationships with NATO and Russia.
  2. For Ukraine to maintain this 'non-aligned' status, it can't join NATO or host foreign troops for security.
  3. The statements from different speakers show a consistent view that Ukraine must stay clear of foreign military influence to avoid escalating tensions.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 24.02.2025

steigan.no • 5 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Conflict analysis Security Studies Diplomacy
  1. The conflict in Ukraine has been prolonged by Western interests, particularly from the US, which aimed to weaken Russia rather than protect Ukraine.
  2. European leaders have mostly followed US policies, losing their own independence in foreign affairs and often supporting conflicts that hurt their own interests.
  3. The end of the war may come from negotiations involving major powers like the US and Russia, suggesting Europe needs to reassess its loyalties and priorities.

Talking Ukraine on "The Deep Dive"

John’s Substack • 7 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Conflict Studies Security Studies Diplomacy
  1. The discussion focused on Ukraine and its current situation. It's clear that the geopolitical context is quite complex and evolving.
  2. The conversation coincided with significant political developments, like Trump's announcement regarding Putin. This shows how quickly events can change the narrative around Ukraine.
  3. Engaging with experts such as military personnel provides deeper insights into the issues at hand. Their perspectives can help us understand the implications of political decisions.

Did NATO provoke Russia's invasion of Ukraine?

Glenn’s Substack • 239 implied HN points • 28 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Studies Geopolitics Security Studies Foreign Policy
  1. NATO may have played a role in provoking Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This idea is supported by some evidence in discussions.
  2. The argument about NATO's involvement gets complicated because it can be mistaken for supporting Russia's actions. It's important to separate facts from opinions.
  3. Understanding these events requires looking at the facts without bias. People often mix up facts with the narratives they want to believe.

On the Brink of WW3: The Dangerous Interregnum

Glenn’s Substack • 259 implied HN points • 01 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Power Dynamics Nuclear policy Global Conflict Security Studies
  1. The world is experiencing a period of uncertainty between two types of power structures: unipolarity and multipolarity. This confusion can lead to increased competition among major nations.
  2. Such power struggles create risks that could escalate into serious conflicts, potentially even a nuclear war.
  3. Understanding these tensions is important for recognizing the dynamics of global relationships and the potential for future crises.

Would Europe Be Better Off Without NATO?

Phillips’s Newsletter • 103 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Security Studies European Politics Geopolitical Strategy
  1. Some people think NATO is very important for Europe, but others believe Europe should think about defending itself without relying on NATO.
  2. There are worries that NATO might not protect European interests and could even make things worse for Europe in a changing world.
  3. Many believe Europe should not ignore global threats and that it needs to rethink its security and defense strategies for the future.

"Peace summit" without negotiations to end the Ukraine War

Glenn’s Substack • 179 implied HN points • 19 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict resolution Diplomacy Security Studies Geopolitics
  1. The recent 'peace summit' didn't include Russia or discuss everyone’s security concerns, which is a big problem.
  2. The summit focused more on getting signatures for a declaration instead of really solving the conflict.
  3. There might be pressure now for a real peace summit that actually tries to end the war instead of just picking a side.

Between Western Hegemony & Eurasian Multipolarity

Glenn’s Substack • 179 implied HN points • 17 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Conflict Studies Security Studies Diplomacy
  1. NATO and Russia have had tensions for 30 years, leading to a potential conflict. It's important to understand this history to see how we got here.
  2. There is a growing idea of a multipolar world, especially in Eurasia, that could lead to more stability. Different countries working together can balance power and prevent wars.
  3. Shifting from a Western-dominated world to a multipolar approach might help create a more peaceful global environment. Looking beyond just one powerful nation can support better international relations.

Beyond Deterrence

Comment is Freed • 98 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Security Studies Diplomacy Conflict resolution Nuclear policy
  1. Deterrence has been a major concept in defense strategy, especially during the Cold War. It suggests that showing strength can prevent aggression from others.
  2. However, relying solely on deterrence can be tricky. Sometimes threats are not taken seriously, and it might not work in every situation.
  3. The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine illustrates that a mix of deterrence strategies, like denying enemy advantages, is now more important as new forms of threats continue to arise.

What Europe is Missing.

Phillips’s Newsletter • 115 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics Defense Policy International relations European Politics Security Studies Geopolitics
  1. European countries are starting to talk about their own military actions, especially regarding Ukraine. This shows a shift in how they view their defense responsibilities.
  2. There's a question about whether Europe can really defend itself without support from the USA. Many believe that it's not just about ability, but also mindset.
  3. The main issue isn't capability; it's whether European nations can picture themselves being independent in defense matters. It's more about perception than actual strength.

Russia's Sopranos

Diane Francis • 1478 implied HN points • 26 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Security Studies
  1. Russia is not just a country; it's an empire with lots of powerful groups fighting for control. This makes it feel more like a mafia organization than a united nation.
  2. Yevgeny Prigozhin, a former friend of Putin, has become a powerful figure by criticizing the military and gaining public support. He raised concerns about how the war is being fought and how soldiers are treated.
  3. Putin's recent challenges show he's losing control. His inability to handle internal conflicts weakens his leadership and could lead to bigger changes in Russia's future.

Russia's World War III

Diane Francis • 1159 implied HN points • 07 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Conflict Studies Diplomacy Security Studies
  1. A recent meeting in Jeddah with global leaders, excluding Russia, highlighted the widespread recognition of Russia's aggressive role in the Ukraine war.
  2. Putin's actions have severe consequences beyond Ukraine, affecting global food and energy supply, and creating instability in other regions, especially Africa.
  3. The meeting served as a crucial step for countries to come together to stop Putin, showing that this war is not just a regional issue but a global problem that needs collaboration to solve.

When Ukraine Is Over ...

Trying to Understand the World • 8 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict resolution Diplomacy Geopolitics Security Studies
  1. Ending a war is complicated and involves different types of agreements. There are various steps to consider, like ceasing hostilities and addressing the conflict's root causes.
  2. Negotiations can be tricky since different parties might have different motivations and understandings. What one side sees as an agreement, the other might see as a temporary measure.
  3. For peace to happen, all involved must genuinely want to end the fighting and agree on terms that are acceptable to everyone. If there’s not real commitment, even signed agreements may not hold up.

The Short War Illusion: The Real US Achilles Heel

Phillips’s Newsletter • 80 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense Policy International relations Military Strategy Geopolitics Security Studies
  1. Many people wrongly believe that wars will end quickly, but history shows us that's often not the case. Thinking a war will wrap up in a few days is a dangerous illusion.
  2. This 'short war' mindset has been repeated before, like during the start of World War I and the early stages of the Ukraine conflict. Such beliefs can lead to serious strategic mistakes.
  3. The U.S. defense industry currently faces challenges that could make quick victories unlikely, especially in potential conflicts with countries like China. It’s important to prepare for long-term engagements.

Germany's World War III

Diane Francis • 659 implied HN points • 23 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Military Affairs International relations Security Studies European Politics
  1. Germany is hesitating to send military help to Ukraine, especially with tanks. Many believe this delay is tied to Germany's historical guilt from World War II.
  2. Germany's political decisions have made the situation worse, as they prioritize their own concerns over supporting Ukraine and the alliance against Russia.
  3. The need for Ukraine to regain its territory, especially Crimea, is urgent, and some leaders argue that supporting Ukraine more decisively can help democracy and stability in the region.

Russia: A Terrorist State

Diane Francis • 619 implied HN points • 29 Sep 22
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Security Studies Terrorism
  1. Russia is accused of being a terrorist state due to its actions in Ukraine and against European energy infrastructure. This has led to calls for it to be designated a state sponsor of terrorism.
  2. The sabotage of gas pipelines has heightened tensions in Europe, causing market disturbances and urgency in securing alternative energy supplies as winter approaches.
  3. There's growing concern about Russian citizens fleeing mobilization, as some may pose security risks in Europe, highlighting the need for vigilance among European nations.

A Strange Defeat.

Trying to Understand the World • 15 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict analysis Political Psychology Security Studies Military Strategy
  1. Western leaders are struggling to understand the real situation in Ukraine. They often rely on outdated ideas and don't recognize the complexities of the conflict.
  2. There's a lack of clear strategy from NATO and Western nations regarding how to manage the crisis. Instead of planning, they seem to be reacting to events without a solid goal.
  3. The current generation of political leaders lacks the experience and skills needed for high-stakes crises. This has led to confusion and ineffective decision-making in dealing with the war in Ukraine.

Cripple Russia Now

Diane Francis • 739 implied HN points • 21 Feb 22
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Conflict Studies Security Studies Diplomacy
  1. To stop a threat like Russia, action is more effective than just threats. Doing nothing can encourage more aggression.
  2. It’s important to take decisive steps to protect oneself against danger. Just talking about it won't keep anyone safe.
  3. The situation with Russia requires strong and meaningful responses to prevent further attacks or issues. This includes showing that there will be consequences for aggressive behavior.

The West Wimps Out

Diane Francis • 699 implied HN points • 25 Feb 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Conflict Studies Foreign Policy Security Studies
  1. Russia attacked Ukraine after a long period of threats. It shows that waiting for sanctions isn't enough to deter aggression.
  2. The friends of Ukraine did not step in to help when needed. This highlights the criticism of how the West responds to threats.
  3. Strong responses, like military support, are necessary to confront aggressors. Simply issuing threats won't protect allies effectively.

Sanction China's Silence

Diane Francis • 459 implied HN points • 07 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Foreign Policy Security Studies Asia-Pacific
  1. China's silence during conflicts can raise concerns for global relationships. It shows how complex alliances and enmities really are in politics.
  2. Russia is a key resource supplier to China, but supporting Russia could alienate China's other important partners, especially in the West.
  3. It's important to recognize that wanting a stable relationship with Russia might not benefit China's global standing or its dealings with Western countries.

NATO: Grow a Backbone

Diane Francis • 399 implied HN points • 24 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics International relations Military Affairs Geopolitics Security Studies Conflict resolution
  1. Putin's actions in Ukraine are seen as aggressive and unjustified. Many believe the world is not doing enough to stop him.
  2. NATO's principle that an attack on one member is an attack on all is not being upheld. There's concern that this could weaken the alliance.
  3. The situation in Ukraine shows that NATO members need to stand together and respond more effectively to aggression. It's important for their security and unity.