Hi, It's good to read your dev thoughts, and encouraging to know that you are committed to a final vision.
I'd like to throw in a two-penneth worth, that might sway a decision.
You say "...enough detail to portray the Earth's geography with any acceptable level of detail". I would question if this is necessary in a political game (whether nation level or geo-political). Unless you are planning tactical warfare, that requires geographical considerations. In which case this game ceases to be of interest. That sort of game is ten-a-penny. You are obviously aware of the original 'Silent Weapons' document and know that it deals with economic and media manipulation, to control the populace - a 'Quiet War' not a 'Shooting War'.
Years ago there was a game, Republic: The Revolution, that promised some truely original (political) gameplay concepts. Unfortunately, for some reason known only to the developer, they decided to concentrate much more on pushing the graphics capability (of the day). This resulted in a completely unnecessary 3d world to move around, that added nothing to the game play.
I could be completly wrong, but I suspect that the average political conspiracy game player will appreciate devious options over looking good. Crusader Kings, not Total War!
Of course I am saying all this to A. Detere you from wasting your time, and B. Speed up the release!
Even an alpha version would be gratefully received.