U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is in Kyiv today to learn the latest about Ukraine’s counteroffensive. This is Blinken’s third trip to the Ukrainian capital since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. It also comes the same week that Ukraine’s Defense Minister submitted his resignation, after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he would be replaced and named his successor.
Faculty experts the George Washington University are available to offer insight, commentary and analysis. If you would like to speak with an expert, please contact GW Media Relations Specialists Shannon Mitchell shannon [dot] mitchell
gwu [dot] edu (shannon[dot]mitchell[at]gwu[dot]edu) and Cate Douglass cdouglassgwu [dot] edu (cdouglass[at]gwu[dot]edu).
Michael Purcell is an adjunct professor teaching Russia & International Security, along with Security Policy Studies. He is an expert in international security, NATO, Russia, and Ukraine with further specialization in Eurasia. His background in international affairs and military strategy gives him the ability to speak on the latest war developments in Ukraine.
David Szakonyi is an associate professor of political science. His research focuses on corruption, clientelism, and political economy in Russia, Western Europe, and the United States. His book -- Politics for Profit: Business, Elections, and Policymaking in Russia -- examines why business people run for elected political office worldwide, how their firms perform as a result, and whether individuals with private sector experience make different policy decisions. Other research looks at the effectiveness of anti-corruption campaigns, employers mobilizing their voters to turnout during elections, and nepotism under authoritarian rule. Szakonyi can discuss the shakeup in the Ukrainian government after Zelenskyy fired his defense minister, citing a need for new approaches.
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