The State of War in Ukraine

Hopkins Podcast on Foreign Affairs

Three weeks ago, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, starting a cataclysmic war in Europe not seen since 1945. The war has already devastated a countless number of lives, led to a swift and international response against Russia, and prompted a rethink of European security and the international order. To cover this tragedy which may define global affairs for years to come, POFA is recording a series of episodes covering all aspects of this crisis. This episode will focus on a higher-level military analysis of the conflict, while future episodes will delve into the humanitarian crisis, the sanctions regime, and the future of NATO and European security. Today, we seek to understand the current state of war in Ukraine and discuss what the war itself may look like in the days and weeks to come. Joining us today is Michael Kofman.

Michael Kofman serves as Research Program Director in the Russia Studies Program at CNA and as a Fellow at the Kennan Institute, Woodrow Wilson International Center in Washington, DC. His research focuses on the Russia and the former Soviet Union, specializing in Russian armed forces, military thought, capabilities, and strategy. Previously, he served as a Program Manager and subject matter expert at National Defense University, advising senior military and government officials on issues in Russia and Eurasia. Mr. Kofman is also a Senior Editor at War on the Rocks, where he regularly authors articles on strategy, the Russian military, Russian decision-making, and related foreign policy issues.

The State of War in Ukraine