A personal thank you:
Thirty-four days ago, I started Geopolitics Unplugged with zero subscribers and no downloads—just an idea and a passion for exploring global affairs. Two days ago when I went to bed there were 85 subscribers. Fast forward to today in just two days, and we’re at 131 subscribers and 1,540 podcast downloads of the podcast.
My formula is simple: A daily news scan (what you are reading now), Monday through Friday a deep dive podcast, Monday through Friday a deep dive post with a TL;DR summary in the beginning, a Saturday and Sunday post of something lighter like a book review or something less heavy but still interesting involving geopolitics or international affairs.
To my loyal readers and listeners, thank you for your support—you have made this growth possible. To the many new subscribers, welcome! I’m thrilled to have you on this journey together.
And to aspiring writers and podcasters: start where you are, with what you have. Follow your vision. Consistency, passion, and the courage to share your voice can create something meaningful. Keep going—you never know who you might reach or inspire. Let’s keep building this incredible community together! If you like what you read, please share it so we can grow. Three cheers to us!
https://geopoliticsunplugged.substack.com/p/will-the-us-blue-falcon-the-kurds
The article explores the U.S. historical relationship with the Kurds, reflecting on past instances where American policy shifted, leaving the Kurds vulnerable. It discusses the term “Blue Falcon” in military slang, which stands for “Buddy Fucker,” to describe how the U.S. has, at times, abandoned its Kurdish allies. The piece examines the current geopolitical landscape, particularly in Syria, where the Kurds have played a significant role in combatting ISIS with U.S. support. It questions whether the U.S. will maintain its commitment to the Kurds or if history might repeat itself, potentially affecting U.S. credibility in the region.
https://thehill.com/policy/international/5057344-south-korean-impeach-acting-president/
South Korea’s parliament has voted to impeach Acting President Choi Sang-mok, marking the second impeachment in a rapid succession of political changes. This action stems from allegations of constitutional violations and abuse of power during his brief tenure. The decision now goes to the Constitutional Court, which will decide whether to uphold the impeachment, potentially leading to further political instability. This event underscores the ongoing political turbulence in South Korea following the sudden resignation of the previous president.
Choi Sang-mok, a former high-ranking official in the South Korean government, unexpectedly became the acting president after the impeachment of the previous leader. Known for his background in economics and finance, Choi has a reputation for being a technocrat rather than a political figure. His brief term as acting president has been marked by controversy, leading to his own impeachment by the parliament. The political landscape in South Korea remains volatile as the nation grapples with leadership changes.
Following a contentious election in Mozambique, thousands of citizens are fleeing to Malawi to escape the ensuing violence and political unrest. The election results have been disputed, leading to clashes between supporters of different political factions and government security forces. Reports indicate that many are seeking refuge in Malawi, where they face challenges with limited resources and overcrowded camps. International organizations are stepping in to provide aid, but the situation remains tense and volatile. (JJM note: This week you will receive a deep dive post on this country, what is going on, why, and why it matters or doesn’t)
https://www.ft.com/content/a769f6a0-00af-4e20-8b6d-16177ee72c96
Ukraine has begun receiving natural gas shipments from the United States, routed through Greece, marking a strategic diversification of its energy supply amidst ongoing conflicts with Russia. This move is part of a broader U.S. initiative to support Ukraine’s energy security, reducing its dependence on Russian gas. The shipments are expected to bolster Ukraine’s energy reserves, particularly important as winter sets in. This development also signifies a strengthening of geopolitical alliances between the U.S. and Ukraine.
A major London-listed mining company has temporarily suspended its operations in Mozambique due to the escalating political unrest following the elections. The decision was made to ensure the safety of employees and to assess the situation on the ground, with the unrest posing significant risks to operations. This halt has implications for the global supply of certain minerals, given Mozambique’s importance in mining sectors like coal and natural gas. The company is monitoring the situation closely, hoping for a swift return to normalcy.
The article debunks the speculation that other South Asian nations might join the Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline project. It argues that due to geopolitical tensions, economic considerations, and alternative energy strategies, countries like India and Bangladesh are unlikely to participate. The pipeline, intended to bring Russian gas to South Asia via Pakistan, faces numerous logistical and political challenges. The piece provides a critical analysis of why these states would opt for different energy solutions, highlighting the complex interplay of regional politics and economics.
This article examines the strategic rivalry between the ports of Gwadar in Pakistan, backed by China, and Chabahar in Iran, supported by India. Both ports are pivotal in the geopolitical game of influence in the Indian Ocean region, affecting trade routes and military strategies. The piece discusses how these ports represent competing visions for regional dominance, with Gwadar being a central part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Chabahar offering an alternative route for trade to Central Asia bypassing Pakistan. The strategic significance of these ports is analyzed in the context of their potential to reshape regional alliances and economic corridors.
http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/news/2024/12/mil-241227-voa05.htm
Zimbabwe has announced plans to collaborate with Russia and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to develop its nuclear energy capabilities. This move is part of Zimbabwe’s strategy to address its energy crisis by exploring nuclear power as a sustainable energy source. The cooperation with Russia includes technical support, training, and potential nuclear reactor construction. This initiative marks a significant step in Zimbabwe’s energy policy, aiming for long-term energy security and independence.
http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/news/2024/12/mil-241227-voa04.htm
In Chad, opposition parties and civil society groups have declared their intention to disrupt the upcoming Sunday elections, citing irregularities and lack of transparency in the electoral process. They argue that the elections are a farce designed to keep the ruling party in power. Protests and civil disobedience are being planned as methods to challenge the legitimacy of the vote. This opposition could lead to significant unrest and potentially delay or affect the electoral outcome.
http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/news/2024/12/mil-241227-voa03.htm
The Taliban has subtly indicated they might be offering sanctuary to militants opposing Pakistan, referring to them as “guests” in Afghanistan. This statement comes amid growing tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, with the latter accusing the Taliban of harboring groups like the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The move could escalate regional conflicts, as Pakistan has been conducting military operations along the border to combat these groups. The Taliban’s stance could complicate peace efforts and regional stability.
China’s central government has encouraged local authorities to distribute cash handouts to citizens as part of New Year festivities to boost consumer spending and stimulate economic activity. This initiative is seen as an attempt to counteract the economic slowdown and encourage domestic consumption amid various economic challenges. Different regions are implementing this in various ways, from direct cash transfers to vouchers for local shopping. The policy reflects China’s broader strategy to use fiscal measures to invigorate the economy during the holiday season.
The Arakan Army (AA) has achieved significant military successes against the Myanmar military, driven by several key factors. Firstly, their strong local support base in Rakhine State provides both recruits and logistical support. Secondly, strategic alliances with other ethnic armed groups have enhanced their military capabilities. Thirdly, the AA has demonstrated tactical acumen in both conventional and guerrilla warfare. Additionally, the Myanmar military’s stretched resources due to fighting on multiple fronts have inadvertently favored the AA, and finally, international sympathy and some covert support have contributed to their momentum.
In this episode, Sal Mercogliano—a maritime historian at Campbell University and former merchant mariner — discusses the seizure of the Cook Island-flagged tanker Eagle S by Finland for using its anchor to sever power and submarine cables between Finland and Estonia in the Baltic Sea and the discovery of monitoring equipment on board.
Disclaimer:
The headlines presented here are taken directly from the referenced articles and do not reflect any personal value judgment or opinion. I make no warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, or truthfulness of the content of these articles. All news and information should be carefully scrutinized, considering the credibility of the source, the facts presented, and the strength of the supporting evidence. Readers are encouraged to form their own conclusions through critical analysis.