The hottest War Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

VLS Reloads at Sea: Now More Than Ever

CDR Salamander • 1336 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
💾 History War
  1. History teaches us important lessons about the need for VLS reloads at sea
  2. Developing a reliable way to reload VLS at sea is crucial for naval readiness
  3. Efforts should be accelerated to meet the requirements for VLS reloading to prepare for potential conflicts

There is no escape

Letters of Note • 2535 implied HN points • 16 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics War
  1. A farewell letter from a Jewish teenager during WWII reveals the tragic realities faced by Jewish citizens under Nazi rule in 1944 Hungary.
  2. The letter showcases the emotional turmoil of facing certain death and the desire to protect loved ones in a time of extreme danger.
  3. Despite the heartbreaking circumstances, the letter also expresses hopes for the future and a final farewell filled with love and tenderness.

Sleep well my love

Letters of Note • 2299 implied HN points • 27 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics War
  1. The love letter is a touching memory of two soldiers falling in love during WWII
  2. The letter captures beautiful moments shared between the two soldiers in North Africa
  3. The emotional parting and unfulfilled promise of reuniting paints a poignant picture
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The Ambonese Woodlot Edition

Why is this interesting? • 1085 implied HN points • 15 Jul 25
💾 History War
  1. A plot of land in the Netherlands tells a deep history of World War II and colonialism. It has a hidden past with a house disguised as a normal home, which once stored munitions.
  2. The Ambonese refugees lived in a unique woodlot in the Netherlands, holding onto their dreams of independence. This place helped them preserve their culture and history for years.
  3. Our surroundings are filled with layers of history, often overlooked. Unlike places where change is constant, some areas remind us of past events and the stories tied to them.

A "Non-Panicky" Nuclear War

Useful Idiots • 1926 implied HN points • 29 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. The article discusses a 'Non-Panicky' Nuclear War with a cynical tone.
  2. It mentions the perspectives and actions of key political figures and media personalities.
  3. The hosts aim to mock and critique politicians and pundits in a Thursday bonus episode.

Build Back Better in Ukraine

Useful Idiots • 1906 implied HN points • 20 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics War
  1. US corporations are strategizing to exploit Ukraine for financial gain.
  2. Economic leaders prioritize profit over ending the war in Ukraine.
  3. There is financial interest in prolonging the conflict for rebuilding investments.

The Hostage Problem

David Friedman’s Substack • 323 implied HN points • 08 Nov 25
💾 History War
  1. Fenrir the wolf doesn't trust the gods, so he wants a guarantee before they bind him again. He offers to take a hostage, which he thinks will make the gods keep their promise.
  2. In everyday situations like buying and selling, people often find it hard to trust each other to keep contracts. This can lead to problems if one party changes their mind.
  3. Using hostages can be a way to make sure both sides stick to a deal. But if one side overestimates the value of the hostage, it can backfire and lead to broken agreements.

Fullbore Friday

CDR Salamander • 1002 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
💾 History War
  1. USS Arkansas (BB-33) had a remarkable service history through two World Wars with only one casualty.
  2. Arkansas provided important gunfire support during key events like the invasion of Normandy and Operation 'Anvil'.
  3. The pilots of VCS-7, a US Navy Spotter Squadron, transitioned from float planes to flying Supermarine Spitfires during combat operations.

The Ukraine War

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 9 implied HN points • 27 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics War
  1. The war is a large-scale, brutal conflict whose outcome will shape the global order, revealing Russian imperial ambitions and weaknesses in European and U.S. strategic responses.
  2. Ukraine has shown unexpected resilience and societal mobilization. The fighting has become attritional and adaptive, challenging pre-2022 assumptions about how modern wars unfold.
  3. A focused symposium with Vladislav Davidzon stresses preparation: participants must complete a short mandatory reading list and engage with pointed study questions to have a serious, informed discussion about the war’s character and likely end states.

Dementia-Ridden Cognitively-Addled Chaos-Monkey Causes Chaos at Alaska Summit

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 622 implied HN points • 17 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. A ceasefire in Ukraine could stop the fighting, but giving up more territory to Russia might encourage further aggression. It's important to be cautious about what compromises are made.
  2. The situation in Ukraine's conflict reflects a shift in power to European nations, as U.S. influence lessens. Europe now has to decide how committed and unified they are in supporting Ukraine.
  3. Understanding the historical context of the conflict is crucial. Russia's view of Ukraine is rooted in history and past governance, which complicates the current situation and makes resolution challenging.

Big Brother: War is Good

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 5963 implied HN points • 22 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics War
  1. The war in Ukraine has become a key point of global propaganda, with narratives being forcefully maintained over actual truths.
  2. Public opinion in conflict zones can be manipulated by controlling the narrative and stifling contrary information.
  3. Government officials may push for wider conflicts without public support, suppressing the reality of the situation.

! Urgent update!

Black Mountain Analysis • 1454 implied HN points • 23 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics War
  1. Reports suggest possible coup in Moscow by Prigozhin.
  2. Two scenarios: coup to unleash Russian army against Ukraine or a strategic deception operation.
  3. Escalation in Kosovo noted; hope for no coup to avoid triggering WW3.

War and comradeship

Archedelia • 1356 implied HN points • 23 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture War
  1. The films highlight the real experiences of war and the deep bonds formed among soldiers.
  2. Returning home from war can be challenging in a modern, distant society.
  3. War demands human qualities that may conflict with public principles in contemporary society.

Fullbore Friday

CDR Salamander • 845 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
💾 History War
  1. The importance of responsibility and trust in wartime scenarios.
  2. The story of the SMS Dresden and its fate during WWI.
  3. Highlighting the decision-making process of a German Commanding Officer during a crucial moment.

Where Does The Aggression Really Begin?

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2151 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. The label 'terrorist' is often used to manipulate public perception and justify violence. Some groups or individuals may be labeled as terrorists while others are not, depending on their perceived alignment with power structures.
  2. Acts of violence by the powerful are often overlooked or justified, while retaliatory actions by those oppressed are labeled as terrorism. This double standard shapes our understanding of aggression.
  3. To create a fair society, it's important to recognize all forms of aggression and hold everyone accountable, not just those who are deemed a threat to the rich and powerful.

Ukrainians Are Sick of the War. But We’re Not Allowed to Say It.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2202 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics War
  1. Many Ukrainians are growing tired of the ongoing war, but fear speaking up due to pressure to show loyalty. This can lead to feeling isolated and worried about being labeled a traitor.
  2. In the beginning of the conflict, there was a strong sense of unity and bravery among Ukrainians, with many willing to help each other despite the chaos.
  3. As time passed, the initial triumph over Russian forces faded, and some leaders began to prioritize public image over the well-being of people, shifting focus away from a potential peace.

100

Points And Figures • 852 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture War
  1. Relentless optimism can lead to a long and happy life, as seen in the example of a World War II veteran. Staying positive helps you enjoy life more, even during tough times.
  2. The impact you make in life is often more important than personal accomplishments, like wealth. Being generous and giving to others leaves a lasting legacy.
  3. Learning from others can shape your own outlook on life. Surrounding yourself with positive people can inspire you to be better and find joy.

Donald Trump Is Not Your Friend

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2435 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. Trump's actions as president showed he supported wars and the deep state. Many people think he might change, but past behavior indicates he likely won't.
  2. Supporters often believe they are backing an anti-war leader, but in reality, they are choosing a president who continues harmful agendas. Voting for mainstream candidates won't change the system.
  3. The president is not a friend to the people; they serve powerful interests, and cheering for them doesn't fight against the real issues in society.

The Hollowness of Holocaust Remembrance

Bastiat's Window • 727 implied HN points • 28 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics War
  1. Holocaust Remembrance can be a failure if it diverts attention from current dangers.
  2. Respectable movements like eugenics and equitism have led to atrocities when groups are seen as more important than individuals.
  3. The corrosion leading to genocide starts small, and equitism today is compared to the eugenics of the past.

Toys vs. Nazis

Animation Obsessive • 1614 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture War
  1. The film 'The Revolt of the Toys' was made in 1947 by Hermína Týrlová and became popular quickly after its release. It was a big deal for Týrlová, who had faced difficult times earlier under Nazi occupation.
  2. The story features toys that come to life and resist a Nazi officer who destroys their workshop. This theme was very relevant as it represented hope and resistance against fascism.
  3. Overall, the film was a celebration of overcoming great evil, with toys symbolizing courage and the spirit of children against oppressive forces.

Nazi Skeletons in Finland and Sweden’s Closets

Matt Ehret's Insights • 1297 implied HN points • 05 Apr 23
💾 History War
  1. Finland and Sweden have historical ties with Nazi Germany that are not widely known.
  2. Both countries provided military support and economic aid to Nazi Germany during WWII.
  3. The roots of fascism and Nazi ideologies run deep in the history of these nations, impacting their alliances and decisions.

Total Nuclear Death

Myth Pilot • 1257 implied HN points • 20 Apr 23
📰 News War
  1. Nuclear War Simulator provides insight into the devastating impacts of a nuclear conflict.
  2. Surviving a nuclear war would lead to a vastly different world, with changes in demographics, government, and society.
  3. Post-nuclear world powers are likely to shift, with countries like China, Japan, and India emerging as key players.

The U.S. Is Choosing Escalation and a Wider War

Eunomia • 727 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics War
  1. There is always a choice when it comes to using force.
  2. Escalating the situation is an overreaction given the limited costs incurred from Houthi attacks thus far.
  3. The U.S. is fueling an atrocious war while overreacting to interruptions in commerce, which may lead to wider conflict.

Guest, Host, Ghost

Thinking about... • 614 implied HN points • 09 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. Hospitality goes beyond just inviting someone over; it creates a sense of belonging and connection, especially in tough times like war. In Ukraine, even amidst conflict, the spirit of generosity remains strong.
  2. The impact of war extends beyond the battlefield and affects communities globally. When one country fights for its sovereignty, like Ukraine, it helps defend the principles of freedom and peace for everyone.
  3. We should acknowledge the courage of those who fight for their country and understand that their struggles impact us all. Honoring their bravery is crucial for maintaining our own moral integrity.

How to win a war

kamilkazani • 923 implied HN points • 02 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics War
  1. Russia's military production could lead to victory in a war if not addressed
  2. Betting against US allies may alter global perceptions and US political influence
  3. Metalworking is crucial for weapon production and heavily reliant on Western imports

The Middle East Metastasizes

Diane Francis • 639 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics War
  1. The conflict in Gaza is spreading, involving more countries and possibly leading to a larger war in the Middle East.
  2. Iran and Russia are actively trying to provoke the U.S. and distract from their own challenges, aiming to weaken America's influence.
  3. This situation could lead to more violence and instability, with the potential for greater harm to civilians and a complicated global response.

Bari Weiss: The Holiday from History Is Over

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 4196 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics War
  1. The ordinary citizens of Israel demonstrated remarkable heroism and courage during times of tragedy and conflict, embodying a spirit of resilience and sacrifice.
  2. The harrowing events of October 7 in Israel served as a wake-up call about the reality of war and the importance of defending a free society.
  3. The experience in Israel prompts reflection on the universal themes of courage, sacrifice, and readiness to defend one's home and values, posing important questions about individual and societal responses to crisis.

Thinking Backwards.

Trying to Understand the World • 8 implied HN points • 25 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics War
  1. The West is trapped in wishful thinking and intellectual ignorance about large-scale war and Russia, so leaders keep hoping for a miracle instead of facing political and military realities.
  2. Russia is pursuing a broad attrition strategy that targets Ukraine's overall war-making capacity, and modern technologies like drones now often favor the defender, so counting territory gains or losses misses the real strategic impact.
  3. Talk of "rearmament" is mostly money and slogans without coherent aims; sensible policy must start with clear strategic objectives and then work down to missions, tasks, capabilities and concepts of operation before buying equipment.

Israel Keeps Finding New Ways To Play Victim While Committing Genocide

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1876 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. Israel is struggling to maintain its victim narrative while facing serious accusations of genocide. It keeps inventing new stories to play the victim role.
  2. The media often uses the term 'pogrom' incorrectly, applying it to minor incidents involving Israelis instead of acknowledging real violence against Palestinians.
  3. Trump is considering both anti-war and pro-war figures for his cabinet, and there's concern about the influence of hawkish advisors in shaping future foreign policy.

Blinken Is Pushing For Ukrainian Teens To Die For US Hegemony

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1671 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken wants Ukraine to send younger soldiers, specifically teens, to fight in the ongoing war with Russia. This is concerning because many Ukrainians want peace instead.
  2. There's a feeling that those in power treat people as pawns, ready to send youth into danger for political goals. It seems very unfair and selfish.
  3. The article discusses a divide in leftist views on different conflicts, highlighting a split between those who understand the impact of US global policies and those who follow mainstream narratives.

Crossing a line

Thinking about... • 1203 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War
  1. Living under Russian occupation is incredibly dangerous for Ukrainians. They risk torture or worse for simply expressing their opinions or having Ukrainian symbols.
  2. While war restricts freedom in Ukraine, people there still experience more personal freedom and expression than under Russian control. They can speak their minds without fear of their own government.
  3. There is a growing concern that America might head towards a regime similar to Russia's, where media is controlled, and people's freedoms are increasingly restricted. It's important to stay aware of this and recognize the lines we must not cross.

US blocks peace in Gaza, supporting Israel's genocidal war on civilians

Geopolitical Economy Report • 916 implied HN points • 23 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics War
  1. The US has blocked peace efforts in Gaza and supported Israel's military actions despite widespread condemnation by experts and human rights organizations.
  2. Israel's illegal blockade of Gaza has caused devastation and humanitarian crisis, leading to international calls for action to end the blockade.
  3. Israel's military attacks in Gaza have resulted in the deaths of thousands of Palestinian civilians, including a high percentage of children and women, raising concerns of genocidal intentions.