Richard C. Holbrooke Lecture

Origins of the War in Ukraine

Michael Kimmage’s lecture delves into the origins of Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, starting in 2008, when war was not predestined, and traces Russia’s growing antagonism toward Ukraine as well as tensions with Europe and the United States. He examines why the war started and how its origins have influenced the war’s ongoing course, now in its third year. Kimmage concludes with insights on the lessons learned—or still to be learned—from the conflict, particularly focusing on their importance for Berlin, Washington, and the US–German relationship.