The hottest War Substack posts right now

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Top World Politics Topics

Everyone Wants Peace Until They Get Hit With The War Propaganda

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1732 implied HN points • 15 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics War
  1. Mainstream Western media and big tech often act as propaganda systems that steer public opinion toward war and elite interests.
  2. That propaganda is especially effective because most people don’t realize they’re being manipulated, so they believe aggressive policies are their own ideas.
  3. If enough people learn to recognize and expose this manipulation, the propaganda loses power and citizens can more easily choose peace and freedom.

The Players on the Eve of Destruction

Noahpinion • 50647 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics War
  1. War is a real and serious threat in today's world, especially with rising tensions between powerful nations. People often don't understand the huge impact it can have on everyday lives.
  2. Taiwan is an interesting example of how a place can seem peaceful and happy even when there's a looming danger. The people go on with their lives, not fully feeling the weight of possible conflict.
  3. Humanity can see into the future, which is a curse because it brings anxiety. But this awareness can also help prepare for tough times ahead, making it important to take action rather than just waiting.

The Long Ukrainian Winter

Thinking about... • 513 implied HN points • 07 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics War
  1. Russia's full-scale invasion has entered its fifth winter and continues to target Ukraine's energy infrastructure and civilians, leaving millions without heat and causing daily deaths.
  2. Western governments have been too slow or uneven in cutting off Russian energy and delivering the air defenses and military aid Ukraine needs, forcing Europeans and NGOs to fill much of the gap.
  3. Individuals can help directly by donating to trusted Ukrainian and allied organizations and platforms that fund air defense, medical aid, vehicles, and rescue equipment to save lives.

The War Film That Turned Dietrich Bonhoeffer Away From Nationalism

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 237 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
đź’ľ History War
  1. Dietrich Bonhoeffer changed his views on nationalism after watching the antiwar film 'All Quiet on the Western Front.' It made him see the harsh realities of war and question the idea that fighting for one's country is a noble cause.
  2. Alongside a French theologian, Bonhoeffer felt sad and moved by a scene where a German soldier comforts a dying French soldier. This moment helped him understand the deep connections between people, beyond national borders.
  3. Bonhoeffer believed that being a Christian should come before national loyalty. He saw nationalism as a dangerous idea that could harm human values, showing that real bravery means standing up against harmful beliefs, not just fighting in wars.

Weekend Update #174: Ukraine Retaking Territory And Starlink

Phillips’s Newsletter • 284 implied HN points • 01 Mar 26
🌍 World Politics War
  1. Ukrainian forces made measurable territorial gains in February (roughly 165 sq km) by using small, well-trained units, precise intelligence, and tight battlefield communications to secure contested "greyzone" areas.
  2. A reported cut-off of Russian access to Starlink degraded Russian communications and likely helped Ukrainian operations, but it also exposes the danger of relying on privately controlled satellite services and pushes Ukraine to develop backup systems.
  3. Ukraine’s FP-5 Flamingo long-range strike showed improved accuracy and real damage to a Russian missile workshop, offering promise for a strategic strike campaign if production can be scaled, while European leaders are distancing themselves from US/Israeli strikes on Iran and signaling a more independent diplomatic stance that could matter politically for Ukraine.
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THE FEAR THAT DROVE TRUMP TO WAR

Seymour Hersh • 28 implied HN points • 19 Mar 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. Fear of a nuclear Iran — even if exaggerated — was presented as the main justification for the recent war and the resulting slaughter.
  2. Senior U.S. military figures engaged in highly secret contacts with Iran’s military leadership, including indirect dealings with the supreme leader, showing intense behind-the-scenes engagement before open conflict.
  3. A pointed joke about the supreme leader captures how officials saw him as inscrutable and suggests that dark humor and misperception played into serious decision-making.

Weekend Update #173: Ukraine Liberates Hundreds Of Square Kilometres, What Might It Mean?

Phillips’s Newsletter • 374 implied HN points • 22 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics War
  1. Ukraine says it liberated about 300 square kilometres in the south, but that may mostly be clearing small Russian infiltration units rather than one big counterattack, and maps often lag real gains.
  2. US‑brokered talks look increasingly performative — negotiators walked out after a short time, Ukrainians feel pressured to cede land, and European leaders are pushing for a more serious, independent role.
  3. Ukraine used FP‑5 Flamingo cruise missiles to strike deep inside Russia at a major missile factory, showing growing long‑range strike ability and a focus on degrading Russian missile production rather than relying only on scarce air defenses.

The US and Israel attack Iran: Round 2

Comment is Freed • 140 implied HN points • 28 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics War
  1. The US and Israel have launched strikes with the stated goal of regime change, and Iran now sees its survival as threatened so it has struck back across the region.
  2. Iran’s government is internally weak — corrupt, economically strained, and it recently crushed large protests — but it still relies on well-organized, ruthless forces like the revolutionary guard.
  3. Those dynamics raise the risk of a wider regional war as Iran tries to create chaos to raise the political stakes for the US, yet it remains unclear whether the strikes will actually topple the regime.

THE SHAME OF DROPPING BOMBS

Seymour Hersh • 45 implied HN points • 12 Mar 26
🌍 World Politics War
  1. Unopposed air wars have no real glory and are morally hollow; striking pre-selected, unprotected targets is essentially a 'turkey shoot.'
  2. US and Israeli air campaigns against Iran and Gaza, after defenses were degraded, are striking largely unchallenged targets and have caused large-scale civilian death and injury.
  3. Political leaders and media are celebrating these unopposed strikes with wartime rhetoric, echoing old propaganda and helping to normalize and glorify mass violence.

Ukraine's Gold Medal

Diane Francis • 919 implied HN points • 29 Jul 24
🌍 World Politics War
  1. Ukraine has been successful in pushing back Russian forces, especially around the city of Kharkiv and in Crimea. Their clever use of technology, like drones, has helped them gain the upper hand.
  2. Western countries are increasing their military and financial support to Ukraine as they prepare for future challenges. They are also allowing Ukraine to strike military targets within Russia.
  3. The situation in Crimea is vital for Ukraine, as weakening Russia's stronghold there can put pressure on their military and economic resources, impacting Putin's control.

Weekend Update #172: Is Ukraine Causing More Russian Losses Than Putin Can Replace?

Phillips’s Newsletter • 291 implied HN points • 15 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics War
  1. Recent data suggest Russia lost more troops than it could replace in Dec 2025–Jan 2026, creating roughly a 25% shortfall; if that trend holds or Ukraine raises the pressure, Russian advances could stall.
  2. A major Western speech at Munich omitted any mention of Russia or Ukraine and emphasized seeking a negotiated end acceptable to Moscow, highlighting how many European leaders still rely on US support and have not built a strong, independent European defence pillar.
  3. A senior Ukrainian strategist says durable peace is impossible while Putin sets the terms, so Ukraine should aim for a long, stable positional stalemate that blocks Russian gains, minimizes rear terror, and increases pressure on the Kremlin.

The Night Whitney Houston Died

Sarah Kendzior’s Newsletter • 5691 implied HN points • 13 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture War
  1. Whitney Houston and other 1980s artists shaped American culture, making it feel eternal to many, even as the country faced challenges.
  2. The night Whitney Houston died was significant for many around the world, showing the impact of her music transcending borders and cultures.
  3. The juxtaposition of Whitney Houston's death with the tragedies in Gaza on Superbowl Sunday highlights the importance of raising our voices against inhumane actions and standing up for values, patriotism, and humanity.

Weekend Update #171: The Week Trump Helped Putin Commit Two War Crimes

Phillips’s Newsletter • 253 implied HN points • 08 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics War
  1. Trump’s public claims about a humanitarian pause helped mask a Russian buildup that enabled two coordinated mass attacks that severely damaged Ukrainian power and heating infrastructure.
  2. The U.S. and Russia look to be negotiating big economic deals without Ukraine’s input, so Europe must demand a seat at the table to avoid being sidelined in decisions about Ukraine’s future.
  3. The claim that India agreed to stop buying Russian oil is false and the joint statements only show vague intentions, so press reports presenting it as a firm pledge were misleading.

Special Anniversary Report: The Future of the SMO [Part 1]

Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge • 5195 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics War
  1. The author has written over 1 million words in a year, equivalent to more than 10 novels, showing a high output of well-researched content.
  2. The report delves into Ukraine's potential to turn the conflict around and the strategies of the US and allies to catch up in the evolving modern battlefield.
  3. The author's previous articles on Russia's offensive strategies provide valuable insights into the current state of the conflict and future developments.

Niall Ferguson: J.D. Vance’s Fighting Words—Against Me and Ukraine

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 7892 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. Wars can start easily, but they are tough to end. It's important to understand this reality of history.
  2. Negotiating peace is necessary when fighting can't settle the conflict. Excluding one side from talks can hinder progress.
  3. Recent actions by government officials suggest a shift in their approach to the Ukraine conflict, indicating possible challenges ahead.

Weekend Update #168: The Trump-Putin Plan To Torment Ukraine Reaches A Crescendo

Phillips’s Newsletter • 274 implied HN points • 18 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics War
  1. U.S. policy under Trump has weakened Ukraine’s defenses by delaying aid and limiting air-defense support, which gave Russia time to intensify strikes on energy infrastructure and worsen civilian suffering.
  2. The appointment of Mykhailo Fedorov as defense minister is widely welcomed because he’s young, tech-focused, and prioritizes air defense, drone production, and professionalizing the military to raise brigade performance and morale.
  3. Russia’s ground advances remain slow and have been slowed further by bitter cold, but its campaign of hitting power and heating is causing major civilian hardship even if it has not broken Ukrainian resistance.

A Victory Strategy For Ukraine

Phillips’s Newsletter • 180 implied HN points • 30 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics War
  1. Make "victory" the clear, explicit objective for Ukraine because the words leaders use shape strategy, morale, and public expectations.
  2. Recent shifts in U.S. politics and messaging have emphasized Russian strength and possible Ukrainian collapse, and that defeatist narrative weakens support and pushes toward concessions.
  3. Ukraine needs clear, concrete victory goals tied to military and diplomatic plans; ambiguity and defeatism erode its negotiating leverage and chances of a favorable outcome.

TGIF: Monitoring the Situation

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3116 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. There is an ongoing war between Israel and Iran, with significant military actions being taken by both sides. This conflict is real and escalating, not just rhetoric.
  2. Discussions in the U.S. about race and gender are getting heated, especially with debates involving public figures like Whoopi Goldberg. These conversations show different perspectives on what it means to face inequality.
  3. Maintaining independent journalism is costly, highlighting the need for support from readers. It's important to recognize the financial challenges that come with providing investigative news.

Weekend Update #167: Lets Be Honest, We Are Taking Advantage Of The Ukrainians

Phillips’s Newsletter • 288 implied HN points • 11 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics War
  1. Western allies are effectively relying on Ukrainians to bear huge human and material costs while providing relatively small aid, and ordinary people are enduring brutal hardships like cold, power loss, and frontline danger.
  2. The Graham–Blumenthal sanctions push looks like political theater: the Senate can act without White House sign-off and the president already claims wide sanction powers, so public promises don’t guarantee real punishment of Russia.
  3. Ukraine’s strikes on Russian energy infrastructure are making a difference but their impact is limited by Chinese purchases and uneven Western support, and there is a tense debate about whether to escalate attacks on Russian cities if more help doesn’t arrive.

Stuck In Another Disastrous Middle East War: Ron Paul

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 29 implied HN points • 04 Mar 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. The U.S. launched a surprise, pre-planned strike on Iran during ongoing negotiations, killing top leaders and undermining trust in diplomacy.
  2. The attack backfired quickly: Iran retaliated, U.S. service members and equipment were lost, bases and embassies were attacked, and the conflict risks becoming a costly, prolonged war.
  3. The advocated solution is to end the intervention now by returning U.S. bases to their host countries, bringing troops home, and respecting that Congress — not foreign leaders — should decide on war.

After Iraq There's No Excuse For Buying The War Lies About Iran

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 3017 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. People shouldn't believe in war lies, especially after the evidence from Iraq. We have more information now, and it's important to think critically about what we're told.
  2. The conflict with Iran isn't just about nuclear weapons; it's really about control and power in the region. These reasons are often hidden behind official narratives.
  3. The situation in Gaza is closely tied to larger conflicts and could escalate into a bigger war. It's crucial to pay attention to these issues because they affect many lives.

Practice Small, Daily Acts Of Sabotage Against The Imperial Machine

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2696 implied HN points • 30 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. Do something small every day to challenge and change how people see powerful systems and institutions. It can be as simple as sharing information or sparking conversations.
  2. Help others see the negative impacts of governments and powerful groups on daily life. Point out the lies and manipulations to foster a clearer understanding of reality.
  3. Collectively, we can work toward a better society by opening each other's eyes to the truth. Even small acts can contribute to major change when done together.

Screwed!

John’s Substack • 14 implied HN points • 10 Mar 26
🌍 World Politics War
  1. The war is going badly for Israel and the United States, with no easy military or political victory in sight.
  2. Ending the war would require big concessions to Iran that seem politically impossible for President Trump, so further escalation is likely and Iran can counter‑escalate.
  3. The only likely quick end would come if the conflict seriously threatens the global economy and forces a halt, but how that would unfold is uncertain.

We're not ready for the Big One

Noahpinion • 23294 implied HN points • 15 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics War
  1. The U.S. is not fully prepared for a potential war over Taiwan.
  2. American businesses should diversify out of China to reduce risks of a sudden cutoff in imports.
  3. The U.S. government needs to rebuild its defense-industrial base to enhance production capacity for critical military assets.

If It's To Be War With Iran, Let It Be The War That Nobody Comes To

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2854 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. If the US goes to war with Iran, many soldiers might die for no good reason. It's not about freedom, but about decisions made by powerful people.
  2. Joining the military in this situation could lead to suffering without purpose, so it's better to avoid it if possible.
  3. Wars can often be pointless, and it's sad to think about fighting and dying for reasons that are not really justified.

We Are, Of Course, Being Lied To About Iran

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2747 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. There are many lies surrounding the conflict between Iran and Israel, specifically regarding Iran's alleged nuclear weapons program. People should question these claims because historical evidence shows Iran has not been building nuclear weapons.
  2. Some officials are spreading false narratives to justify military actions against Iran. It's important to look for substantial evidence before believing such claims.
  3. Past experiences show that governments and media often lie to gain public support for wars. It's crucial to remain skeptical and demand clear evidence about these situations.

Israel Supporters Will Be Despised For The Rest of Their Lives

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2621 implied HN points • 21 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. Supporting Israel will likely lead to long-lasting negative views from others. Many believe that those who backed harmful actions won't easily escape their past.
  2. Activism against violence in Gaza is sometimes labeled as terrorism, showing a troubling trend in how society views peace efforts.
  3. Critics argue that Western media skews perceptions of Iran, making it harder to understand its actual actions and intent in international politics.

The Object of War

imetatronink • 4107 implied HN points • 12 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics War
  1. In war, the focus should be on destroying the enemy army.
  2. The acquisition and retention of territory is not the primary measure of success in war.
  3. Effective warfare can involve fighting defensively to destroy enemy forces.

Is Ukraine's position improving? What's Russia's breaking point? Is House of Dynamite accurate?

Comment is Freed • 77 implied HN points • 11 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics War
  1. Russian operations have slowed this year because of freezing weather, disruptions to key communications like Starlink, and manpower and quality problems, and recent failures undermine the idea of an inevitable Russian victory.
  2. The front is long and hard to track, but Ukrainian forces are on the offensive in roughly a quarter of engagements and could exploit thinly held Russian sectors, though Kyiv is likely to avoid a risky large-scale counteroffensive.
  3. Russia is deploying about 711,000 personnel in Ukraine with estimated daily losses of 1,000–1,100, making replacements difficult and forcing reliance on questionable recruits, which strains its fighting capacity.

War Is The Worst Thing In The World

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2379 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics War
  1. War causes immense suffering and destruction, impacting everyone involved. It turns life into a nightmare filled with pain and loss.
  2. People in power often push for wars for their own gain, manipulating others by claiming it’s for noble reasons like freedom or self-defense.
  3. Opposing war is seen as radical, but those promoting peace are the ones truly fighting for a better world, and their voices should not be silenced.

Bombing Hospitals Is Bad Again

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2277 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. Bombing hospitals is a serious issue, and it's bad no matter who does it. Sometimes the media only pays attention when it serves a certain narrative.
  2. Countries like Israel attack hospitals more frequently than reported, leading to suffering in places like Gaza. The situation shows a double standard in how we view different nations' actions.
  3. Many reasons given for going to war are based on lies or misleading claims about wanting to help people. The truth is often about power and control, not the welfare of others.

TGIF: War Games

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 4020 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. Trump suggests that the U.S. should step back from supporting Ukraine and that Europe should take more responsibility for its own defense. He criticizes the spending involved and questions the effectiveness of current strategies.
  2. Sanna Marin, Finland's former prime minister, agrees that it's reasonable for Americans to ask why they should pay more for Europe's security. She believes Europe needs to strengthen its own defense capabilities.
  3. There are ongoing discussions about the long-term implications of the Ukraine conflict and the need for a new approach, as the war has dragged on with significant human costs and little indication of a quick resolution.

Gonzalo Lira [i]

Black Mountain Analysis • 1945 implied HN points • 14 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics War
  1. Journalism is restricted in times of war to protect national interests.
  2. If in a foreign country during conflict, citizens should be detained, not killed.
  3. The circumstances of Gonzalo Lira's death raise questions about possible political manipulation.

Ambulances for Ukraine

Thinking about... • 238 implied HN points • 18 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics War
  1. Drone-jamming vehicles are being refitted and sent to the Ukrainian National Guard's second corps (Khartiia) so medics and wounded can be transported safely without being targeted by drones.
  2. A public fundraiser aiming for one million dollars has reached about 87% with over five thousand donors, and several of the retrofitted vehicles have already been delivered to Kyiv and the front.
  3. Supporters are asked to donate to help finish the project, with information on claiming a US tax deduction through the fundraiser platform and an option to give directly to the Ukrainian presidential platform United 24.

Weekend Update #163: Ukraine Goes From Collapsing to Liberating Kupyansk

Phillips’s Newsletter • 326 implied HN points • 14 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics War
  1. Ukraine’s recent push around Kupyansk shows it isn’t collapsing and can still mount quick, effective local counterattacks to blunt Russian advances.
  2. The current U.S. diplomatic approach appears to seek Russia’s reintegration without real penalties and to pressure Ukraine into concessions, creating a lopsided negotiation that favors Moscow.
  3. European reaction is shifting: many leaders are wary of the U.S. posture and the EU has moved to freeze Russian assets, indicating growing independent support for Ukraine.

Joe Biden is a War Criminal

Pen>Sword • 1976 implied HN points • 01 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. Biden's actions near the Gaza border transformed his image from 'Sleepy Joe' to 'Genocide Joe', catalyzed by aiding Israeli aggression.
  2. Biden's administration poured billions into Israel, supporting a violent war as civilian casualties, especially children, continued to rise.
  3. An exploration of how Biden's actions in the Israel-Palestine conflict redefined his presidential legacy, painting him as a war criminal facilitating genocide.

Glory to Ukraine!

Diane Francis • 1278 implied HN points • 24 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics War
  1. The war in Ukraine started two years ago and is still ongoing. This shows the ongoing struggle and resilience of the Ukrainian people.
  2. Russia is portrayed as the aggressor, while Ukraine is seen as brave and deserving of support. It's important to recognize the efforts and courage of those fighting for their country.
  3. People are encouraged to help Ukraine by donating and keeping them in their thoughts and prayers. Every little support counts in times of crisis.

C'est La Vie, C'est La Guerre

Ladyparts • 1877 implied HN points • 22 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture War
  1. The post discusses thoughts on empathy, aggression, war, and peace in the context of a personal experience at the French border.
  2. The author is sharing the essay for free for a limited time as a holiday gift to the readers, showcasing appreciation for the audience.
  3. To access more content, readers can sign up for a 7-day free trial on Ladyparts.

Weekend Update #164: Ukraine Is Winning The War At Sea

Phillips’s Newsletter • 246 implied HN points • 21 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics War
  1. Ukraine is winning the war at sea: unmanned naval drones have damaged a Russian Kilo submarine in Novorossiysk and struck distant shadow-fleet tankers, degrading the Black Sea Fleet and threatening Russia’s oil shipments.
  2. Europe split over funding Ukraine: the EU chose guaranteed loans (about €90bn) instead of seizing frozen Russian assets, a compromise that buys time but raises doubts about European willingness to fully confront Russia.
  3. U.S. policy appears to be easing toward Russia: the Trump administration quietly removed sanctions on some foreign firms and U.S. exports to countries linked to Russia rose, suggesting Washington may be undermining broader sanctions pressure.