America’s success in dealing with Moscow depends to a great degree on our ability to understand Russia in all its complexities.  Yet the striking number of times that Washington has been surprised by Russian behavior over the past few decades suggests that American experts are struggling in this endeavor.  What is the state of our Russia-watcher cadre in government, academia, think tanks, and media?  And what might be done to elevate our public discourse on Russia? 
 
Center for the National Interest Vice President George Beebe moderated a discussion on October 27, 2020 to address these important topics which featured analysis from several prominent experts.

Moderator:

George Beebe, vice president, Center for the National Interest

Speakers:

Anatol Lieven, professor, Georgetown University

Anna Vassilieva, professor, Monterey Institute of International Studies

Keith Gessen, assistant professor, Columbia University

Michael Kimmage, professor, Catholic University

Photo by Kremlin.ru