The Russia Seminar: A Deep Dive into Russian Ambitions and Policies
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From 7 to 9 May 2024, Senior Course 144 attended the Russia Seminar, a three-day study programme dedicated to Russia’s foreign policy, as well as the impact of its aggressive actions against Ukraine.
The Seminar began with panel introductions delivered by guest lecturers followed by Q&A sessions.
The panel featured Dr Pavel K. Baev (NOR) from the Peace Research Institute Oslo, Mr Keir Giles (GBR) from the Russia and Eurasian Programme/Conflict Studies Centre at Chatham House, Dr Can Kasapoğlu (TUR) from the Hudson Institute, Dr Michael Rouland (USA) from RUSI and U.S. European Command, and Dr Richard Connolly (GBR) from the Centre for Russian, European and Eurasian Studies (CREES) and the University of Birmingham.
On the second day, Course Members were able to dive deeper into the topics while deliberating within Working Groups (WG) assisted by mentors. They presented the findings of their respective Working Group on the last day, continuing the discussions on Russia’s political and geopolitical dynamics.
This Seminar allowed Course Members to reflect on and discuss the geopolitical aspirations, main drivers, and challenges of Russian domestic, foreign and security policy agenda. From Russia’s perceptions of the global order to domestic concerns such as its economy and the impact of international sanctions, this Seminar provided insights on the factors that shape Russian policies and actions. It also enabled discussions about Russia’s national security strategy as well as its military capability and doctrine, notably in the context of its invasion of Ukraine.