Expert Analysis and Commentary
- A ‘Monumental Step’ on Ukraine’s Path to Europe
The EU’s decision to begin accession talks with Ukraine is a sign that the country is on the right path on reforms. - In Ukraine’s Second Winter of War, Peace Still Requires Justice
Ukrainians continue to defend a global rule of law — for themselves and for the rest of us. - For Ukraine Democracy: Reforms Now, Elections When Possible
Ukrainians and experts say elections compromised by war risk eroding democracy. - How Does the Israel-Hamas War Impact Russia and Ukraine?
The Middle East conflict adds another layer of complexity to both sides’ effort to court global support and to Washington’s effort to aid Kyiv. - From Ruins to Resilience: The Path Toward Recovery in Ukraine
Ukraine has shown remarkable resilience amid destruction. The international community can help it rebuild even better. - Learning from Failed Peace Efforts in Afghanistan
The United States should be applying lessons for when and how to negotiate with adversaries to other conflicts — starting with Ukraine. - Ukraine: The Next 10 Months Can Shape Hopes for Peace
By summer 2024, three evolutions can help open a path for a just and lasting peace. - The West Should Help, Not Hinder, Russia’s Anti-war Exiles
Emigré journalists and democracy activists seek change in Russia. Democracies can help. - Why We Should Back Ukraine’s Diplomatic Long Game
Kyiv’s diplomatic strategy strikes at the heart of Russia’s theory of victory. - How Russia’s Military Bloggers Shape the Course of Putin’s War
Their ‘soft’ immunity ensures a platform for powerful hardline voices to lobby for an even more aggressive approach to the war on Ukraine. - Ukraine is advancing its peace plan. The U.S. can help.
Kyiv seeks a ‘peace summit’ amid U.N. meetings next month. Preparatory talks are underway. - At Ukraine’s Edge, Russia Presses Hybrid War on Tiny Moldova
U.S. and partners should unify their support for Moldovans’ aim to join the European Union. - Russia Expands Its War on Ukraine — to Global Food Supplies
The U.S. and its partners should lead in holding Putin accountable and pressing for a reversal. - One Vital Change Can Advance Long-Term Peace in Ukraine
We must see — and support — civil society as Ukraine’s main engine for peace. - U.S. Sends Mixed Signals with Cluster Munitions and Chemical Weapons Calls
The U.S. complied with treaty obligations on chemical weapons, while asserting an exception on cluster munitions. What does it mean for U.S. leadership? - The NATO Summit: Three Takeaways for Europe, War and Peace
The conference in Vilnius wrought what was possible: incremental steps for Ukraine and stability. - What Does the Wagner Mutiny Mean for Putin and His War on Ukraine?
The war in Ukraine revealed the rot within the Russian state — Yevgeny Prigozhin’s desperate moves show that Putin’s rule is more brittle than ever. - For a Future Peaceful Russia, Engage its Exiles Now
A long game to reshape Russia after Putin could seek a million new emigres as allies. - 15 Months on, Ukrainians Remain United on Freedom, Rule of Law
Conversations in Kyiv: Ukrainians vow to resist Kremlin rule and corruption. - Like Ukraine, Myanmar Deserves International Aid
The resistance’s historic unity for democratic change is worthy of the world’s support. - Dislodging Putin’s Foothold in the Balkans
With the West focused on Ukraine, Russia is taking the opportunity to nibble away at NATO’s borders and to sow discord. - The United States Should Lead the Push for Peace in Ukraine
As global momentum builds, American leadership can help ensure that Ukraine secures a peace that is just and sustainable. - It’s Not About Picking Sides: The Nonaligned Movement and Russian Aggression
Nonaligned countries have long been champions of international law. They should condemn Russia’s violations and uphold the rules-based order. - The New Nonaligned Movement Is Having a Moment
As Global South states look to insulate themselves from great power competition, they must uphold the principles of the international order. - For a Future Peaceful Russia, Engage its Exiles Now
A long game to reshape Russia after Putin could seek a million new emigres as allies - Amid War, Ukraine Aims to Protect the Rights of a Brutal Foe
To save the laws of war from Russia’s assault, we should help Ukraine shield POWs. - How the ICC’s Warrant for Putin Could Impact the Ukraine War
While this is a significant step, it will be critical for the international community to continue to pursue accountability for the crime of aggression. - What China's 'Peace Plan' Reveals about its Stance on Russia's War on Ukraine
The proposal is intended to give China the aura of a responsible great power but lacks any serious commitment to follow through. - Ukraine’s Year of War: What Does It Mean?
USIP’s Ambassador William Taylor: Shared traumas now weld Ukrainians’ identity and unity. - Ukraine: A Real Peace Will Require Change from Russia
Russia, like other empires, will need a military defeat to give up its expansionist goals. - Ukraine: Can We Shorten a Path to Peace in 2023?
Russia is preparing a new offensive. If Ukraine can preempt it, we can expect a shorter war. - Ukraine’s Zelenskyy Asks: Can We Shorten This War?
Ukrainians seek a victory within months, rather than a stalemate of years. - The China-Russia ‘Alliance’: Double the Danger or Limited Partnership?
The Ukraine war shows that while the 'no limits' Beijing-Moscow strategic partnership does have limits, it remains threatening. - Preparing for Victory in Ukraine
A long-haul strategy to help Ukraine win the war against Russia — and secure the peace. - A Missile Strikes Poland: How Russia’s War Could Spread
The only safety from worsened war — nuclear or otherwise — is in making Russia end it. - What a Russian Nuclear Escalation Would Mean for China and India
If Moscow were to use a nuclear weapon in Ukraine, how would Beijing and New Delhi react? - In Moldova, Russia Wages Another Hybrid War
On Ukraine’s flank, Moscow crimps Moldova’s economy and spurs protests to halt its move toward Europe. - Ukraine’s Africa Visit Shows Its Fight Against Russia Goes Beyond the Battlefield
As Ukraine seeks to increase international support, Kyiv should focus on building partnerships in the Global South. - Ukraine: The EU’s Unprecedented Provision of Lethal Aid is a Good First Step
But more must be done to bolster Ukraine’s defense and European security. - In a War Over Global Order, Russia Bombs Ukraine Cities
Ukrainians face new crimes and a punishing winter in their defense against dictators’ wars. - Nobel Peace Prize: Documenting Rights Abuses is Vital in Ukraine and Beyond
But the international community needs to further back documenters’ efforts to hold governments accountable. - Is Russia Escalating to De-Escalate?
As Russia suffers successive defeats, Putin may be seeking to precipitate a Cuban missile crisis moment to pave the way toward an exit from the war. - A Look at the Laws of War — and How Russia is Violating Them
Upholding international law makes peace possible, which means Russia’s leader must be held to account. - Regime Preservation is Putin’s Primary Concern
Ukrainians face new crimes and a punishing winter in their defense against dictators’ wars. - Is Russia Committing Genocide in Ukraine?
Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin says there is growing evidence of genocide being committed by Russian forces. - How Ukraine’s Counteroffensives Managed to Break the War’s Stalemate
Ukrainian forces have made swift gains in the east near Kharkiv. How will Russia respond? - Amid War in Ukraine, Russia’s Lavrov Goes on Diplomatic Offensive
- In search of partners to ease its international isolation, Russia has shifted its focus to Africa and Asia.
- Putin and Erdogan in Iran to Discuss Syria’s Future, Ukraine War
Russian, Iranian presidents aim to prevent Turkey from a new offensive in northern Syria. - A Fragile Ukraine Grain Deal Raises Cautions on Talks with Putin
Russia’s missile strike and lax verification weaken the effort to ease global grain shortages. - Russia’s Ukraine War Has Narrowed — But Not its Goals
Putin remains fixed on erasing Ukraine. Ideas for peace talks can’t ignore that. - A Democratic Ukraine Must Include All LGBTQ+ People
Some find more acceptance under pressures of war, but wider, intentional change is needed. - Russia’s War on Ukraine: How to Get to Negotiations
As Ukrainians choose when to hold peace talks, here is the support they will need. - Why Have the Wars in Afghanistan and Ukraine Played Out So Differently?
The United States, NATO, national leaders and security forces failed in Afghanistan but not in Ukraine. - The West Must Sustain Support for Ukraine Shown at Madrid
Reinforcing international rule of law means avoiding rewarding aggression. - Another Way to Help Ukraine: Prepare Now for a Peace Process
If Ukraine opts for negotiations, Europe and the United States need to be ready to join. - Ukraine: How to Oppose Russia’s Weaponization of Corruption
An expert urges democracies to target ‘strategic corruption’ that undermines governance, stability. - Russia’s War Has Created a Human Trafficking Crisis, Says U.N. Envoy
Pramila Patten, the U.N.’s special representative on sexual violence in conflict, calls for a “coordinated regional approach.” - The United States Speaks Clearly on Russia’s Ukraine War
Seeking peace for Ukraine and a more stable world means sustaining that message globally. - Putin’s War Backfires as Finland, Sweden Seek to Join NATO
The Russian autocrat aimed to check NATO’s expansion but has instead strengthened the alliance. - Is ‘Neutralization’ Obsolete After the Ukraine War?
Russia’s war has brought into question the future of ‘neutralization.’ Here’s a look at what it means and how it’s used. - Global Peace Needs a Clear U.S. Reply to Putin’s Nuclear Threat
Ideas for ending Russia’s Ukraine war must sustain deterrence against nuclear or chemical attack. - The Ukraine War Is Deepening Global Food Insecurity — What Can Be Done?
The World Food Programme’s chief economist says we must not just address the current crisis but take bold steps to avert future challenges. - On Ukraine, Africa Needs a Clearer U.S. Message
The crisis is a moment to back Africans’ calls for an inclusive, rules-based global system. - Estonia’s Ex-President Kaljulaid: the Future of the Free World Is at Stake in Ukraine
Kersti Kaljulaid urges West to enhance support for Ukraine, maintain sanctions pressure on Russia. - Russia’s Ukraine War Could Offer Chance to Resolve South Caucasus Conflicts
‘Frozen conflicts’ in Georgia and between Armenia and Azerbaijan could relapse into violence, but there is also an opening for a diplomatic reset. - The Ukraine War Escalates Demands to Reform the United Nations
Russia used its U.N. veto to defend its assault. So nations just made a small step to seek accountability. - Will the Ukraine War Renew Global Commitments to the International Criminal Court?
Enhanced support will be secured by the Court delivering on its mandate — the Ukraine crisis provides that opportunity. - To Sustain Hopes for Peace in Ukraine, Keep an Eye on Turkey
Even as brutality seems to block options now for talks, it’s vital to keep channels open. - A Look at Neutrality Now — and after the Ukraine War
The international community needs to update the ‘law of neutrality’ to prevent autocrats like Putin from weaponizing it. - How Territorial Issues Could Impact Security Guarantees to Ukraine
States must carefully weigh the risks of agreeing to provide security without knowing exactly what territory such guarantees would cover. - How to Achieve Accountability for Atrocities in Ukraine
Investigating and prosecuting these atrocity crimes will require the international community’s coordination, creativity and political will. - Protecting Civilians in Ukraine Now — and After the War
Defending the country against Russian aggression and building peace will require long-term, flexible security sector support. - Ukraine: The Dangers in Russia’s New Offensive
Russia launches its broadest assault yet on the Donbas region. - China’s Ukraine Gambit: Beijing Plays Both Sides
Its leaders clearly believe China’s contradictory stance offers it the best chance of protecting Chinese interests and finding opportunity in this crisis. - What Russia's Invasion of Ukraine Means for African Governments
While some see the chance to bolster the continent’s energy markets, others double-down on ties with Moscow. - Ukraine Crisis Prompts China to Swing Behind Myanmar’s Junta
Outreach to pro-democracy forces appears over as Beijing expects the war in Ukraine to curb Russian backing for the generals. - Ukraine: Justice for War Crimes Must Begin with Evidence
Democracies must immediately support the massive task of gathering evidence amid war. - Ukraine Considers Neutrality. Will Putin Respond?
Kyiv shapes a peace plan with U.S., Europe as guarantors. But is Moscow truly ready to negotiate? - Rethinking U.S. Engagement with U.N. in the Context of Ukraine: Part Two
Four recommendations for using U.S. leadership to reinvigorate multilateral diplomacy. - In Ukraine, a War of Rare Clarity Demands Accountability
Most wars carry moral ambiguity. This one does not. Future peace requires action now. a - How Russia May Reprise Its Syrian Playbook in Ukraine
From its goal of a post-West world to a strategy of civilian terror, Moscow’s war in Europe echoes its Middle East intervention. - Religious Mobilization in Ukraine
An on-the-ground perspective on how religious leaders are shaping the conflict’s trajectory. - Ukraine’s Defiance Could Force Putin into Talks
Russia, with its ground offensive stalled, might negotiate. - Ukraine War Fallout Will Damage Fragile States and the Poor
Global shocks will worsen poverty, hunger and potentially exacerbate political instability, conflict. - Rethinking U.S. Engagement with U.N. in the Context of Ukraine: Part One
After a retreat from multilateralism, will the Ukraine crisis spark a resurgence in U.S. leadership at the U.N.? - Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine Shakes Up Venezuela’s Geopolitical Status Quo
With first U.S. diplomatic trip to Venezuela in over two decades, the door may be open for a productive path forward. - The Role of Religion in Russia’s War on Ukraine
The battle for Ukraine’s spiritual independence has deep roots in the region’s religious history. - Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine Helps the Taliban and Makes Afghans Worse Off
With Western attention pulled toward Ukraine, aid to Afghanistan might wane just as Afghans need it most. - Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia’s Balancing Act Over Russia’s War in Ukraine
Russia’s role in ongoing conflicts in South Caucasus countries is a critical factor in their response. - This Global Resistance to Putin’s War Is Historic
Democracies are rallying to restore peace and the rule of law. Now, we must stay the course. - Tragically, Ukraine’s Agonies Have Only Begun
As Ukrainians resist, Putin will multiply his violence. Democracies must prepare for more costs. - China Is Not Russia. Taiwan Is Not Ukraine.
While it’s tempting to compare the two, Taiwan and Ukraine are different countries with dissimilar geopolitical circumstances. - Support Humanitarian Corridors and a Humanitarian Pause in Ukraine
As the war enters a new — and likely deadlier — phase, there must be humanitarian measures taken to reduce civilian casualties. - With Friends Like These: How Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine Hurts Central Asia
While accepting Russia’s big footprint in their security and economic lives, Central Asian countries have tried to conduct “multi-vector” foreign policies. - Putin Chooses His ‘Forever War’
Preserving democracy and seeking peace still mean deterrence. - How Putin’s Invasion of Ukraine Affects the Rest of Russian Foreign Policy
Could the decision to attack Ukraine portend a shift in Moscow’s international decision-making?
On Peace Podcast
Previous Events
Faith Under Fire in Russia’s War on Ukraine
On October 30, 2023, USIP, the Atlantic Council, and Razom for Ukraine hosted a conversation with a delegation from the All-Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations. These senior Ukrainian religious leaders — who represent multiple branches of Christianity in Ukraine in addition to the country’s Muslim and Jewish communities — highlighted the various roles that religious groups and organizations have played as part of Ukraine’s war effort. ;
Expanding Ukraine’s Democratic and Electoral Progress During War
On October 26, USIP, in collaboration with the International Foundation for Electoral Systems and the National Endowment for Democracy, hosted a discussion on refortifying Ukraine's democratic and electoral foundations. The conversation delved into the key steps Ukraine can undertake now to prepare for free and fair elections once Russia’s invasion ends, while also addressing strategies for Ukraine to safeguard itself against disruptive Russian disinformation narratives targeting its democracy and the postponement of elections.
The Impact of the War in Ukraine on Russian Civil Society
On June 7, 2023, USIP and New York University's Jordan Center for the Advanced Study of Russia co-hosted a discussion on the impact of the war in Ukraine on Russian civil society both at home and in exile abroad. The conversation also touched on the potential long-term implications of the war for Russian civil society and government, including in regards to relations with Europe.
Russian Grand Strategy in the Era of Great Power Competition
On April 11, 2023, USIP hosted a conversation with Andrew Monaghan on what Russian grand strategy entails, how it manifests in the political, economic, and military spheres, and what this means for the United States and the future of global conflict in the era of great power competition.
Securing the Peace in Ukraine
On March 27, 2023, USIP hosted a discussion on the tensions between security, democracy and civil liberties, the costs and benefits of total defense/comprehensive security models, and the regulation and oversight of strong security sectors. The conversation examined lessons learned from Nordic and Baltic states, which could represent a thoughtful roadmap for ensuring Ukraine’s democracy continues to stand strong while maintaining effective and transparent security institutions that credibly deter interstate aggression.
Winning the Peace After the War
On February 8, 2023, USIP hosted a conversation on why supporting Ukraine’s democratic processes and institutions is pivotal for Ukraine to both win the peace for its own people and become a much-needed beacon of democracy for the regional neighborhood and beyond.
Twitter Space: Syria, Russia and the War in Ukraine
On November 8, 2022, USIP hosted a Twitter Space conversation on the short- and long-term implications of Russia’s shifting role in the Syrian conflict, as well as what the geopolitical fallout from the war in Ukraine means for Syria and the Middle East.
Women’s Changing Roles and Leadership During the War in Ukraine
On March 7, 2020, ahead of International Women’s Day, USIP, the Romulus T. Weatherman Foundation and Women in International Security hosted a discussion with women from Ukraine and Europe that looks at how the war is impacting gender roles in military, civil society and government institutions.
One Year Later: Russia's War Against Ukraine
On March 1, 2023, USIP hosted a conversation looking back on the last year of Russia’s war against Ukraine, the state of the conflict today, and its implications for the United States, Europe and international peace and security.
Putin’s Shifting Approach to Conflict and the War in Ukraine
On November 3, 2022, USIP hosted a conversation with leading Russia expert Mark Galeotti on the war’s latest developments, Russia’s strategic thinking and the implications for Ukraine, Russia and Europe.
Delivering Justice for Ukraine
On June 28, 2022, USIP and the Ukrainian Embassy held a discussion of ongoing legal efforts to defend Ukraine’s sovereignty and deliver justice for the Ukrainian people. This event marked the celebration of Ukrainian Constitution Day, which commemorates the signing of the country’s constitution in 1996.
The Ukraine Conflict and the Crisis of Sexual Violence
On June 6, 2022, USIP held a conversation with U.N. Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) on Sexual Violence in Conflict Pramila Patten following her recent visit to Ukraine.
Exposing Atrocities in Ukraine
On June 1, 2022, Ambassador Bill Taylor and NBC News Political Director Chuck Todd discussed the role that journalists have played in relation to accountability for atrocities committed during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Responding to Russian Atrocities in Ukraine
On March 22, 2022, USIP hosted a discussion on seeking justice for Russian atrocities in Ukraine, the needs of Ukrainian civilians, available accountability mechanisms and the role of multilateral institutions in operationalizing an effective accountability strategy.