The panel discusses the security implications of this decision by Vladimir Putin, how it fits into Russia’s wider nuclear doctrine, and how concerned the world should be.
Also under discussion is Belarus itself, three years on from a presidential election which Aliaksandr Lukashenka was widely seen to have lost, sparking widespread pro-democracy protests.
Since then Lukashenka has crushed the opposition, journalists have been kidnapped, and the country has been drawn into Russia’s invasion against Ukraine. The panel discusses the sentiment in the country via polling data commissioned by Chatham House, and asks how best to engage with Europe’s last dictatorship.
Joining Bronwen Maddox from the Chatham House Russia and Eurasia programme are Keir Giles, senior consulting fellow, Ryhor Astapenia, director of our Belarus Initiative, and associate fellow Samantha de Bendern.
About Independent Thinking
Independent Thinking is a weekly international affairs podcast hosted by our director Bronwen Maddox, in conversation with leading policymakers, journalists, and Chatham House experts providing insight on the latest international issues.
More ways to listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify.