March 22, 2010

Dr. Roman Popadiuk, former U.S. Ambassador to the Ukraine, presented “Russia & the Near Abroad: Relations with Former Soviet Republics” as part of the 2010 World Affairs Council of Western Michigan’s Great Decisions Lecture Series.

Russia’s policy of maintaining an atmosphere of influence in former Soviet satellites has been challenged in recent years by movements against pro-Russia regimes. Russia has pushed back by cutting Ukraine’s natural gas supply and intervening in Georgia’s campaign in South Ossetia. Will Russia regain its traditional leadership role in the region? This is among the many questions Ambassador Roman Popaduik answered.