Future War and the Defence of Europe

As Russia intensifies its campaign in Ukraine and continues provocations along NATO’s borders, Europe faces one of its most serious security challenges since the Cold War. With US support under increasing uncertainty, the question looms large: can Europe unite to defend itself?

Lieutenant General Ben Hodges, former Commander of NATO Allied Land Command and US Army Europe, brings a critical American perspective to this urgent debate. Drawing on his extensive military experience and recent visits to Poland, Latvia, and India, he will assess the current trajectory of the war in Ukraine and its implications for Europe’s future security.

General Hodges has long been recognised for his clear-eyed foresight. In early 2022, he warned of the near certainty of a new Russian attack—weeks before the invasion began. Today, he cautions that Europe possesses both the capacity and the capability to respond to Russian aggression—if it can muster the political will.

This timely discussion will shed light on Europe’s preparedness for an evolving conflict and the broader geopolitical landscape shaping tomorrow’s security environment.

• The evolving state of the war in Ukraine and Russia’s next moves
• NATO’s role and the limits of European defence capability
• US–European relations under shifting American foreign policy priorities
• Russian drone incursions in Poland and Romania and their wider significance
• The implications of Russian military exercises in Belarus
• Russia’s deepening ties with India and other global actors
• What Europe must do to deter further escalation and defend its future

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Asia Scotland Institute