Russia's War of Aggression Against Ukraine: The Underestimated Threat to Europe

CDR Balakleinko of the Ukrainian Navy will explore the motivations, strategies, and consequences of Russia's ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine. This presentation offers an internal perspective, highlighting the underestimated threat this conflict poses to Europe, including the following:

• An overview of Ukraine as an independent nation
• Key players involved in the war
• Historical context of Russia's past wars and interventions, setting the context for the war against Ukraine
• Strategic importance of Ukraine for Russia
• An examination of Russia's "gray zone approach" and its impact on Europe
• Insights into how Russia is adapting
• A stark look at the violent tactics employed by Russia in conventional warfare
• Predictions on the war

Commander Maksym Balakleinko is an active Ukrainian Navy officer currently training at the Naval Staff College in Newport. Maksym began his career as the head of the CBRN Defense Department aboard the frigate Hetman Sahaydachnyi, earning his operational officer qualification and NATO maritime evaluation training. In 2019, he completed the Division Officer Course at the Surface Warfare Officer School in Newport. He then became the operations officer aboard the frigate. Most recently, he held the position of Head of the Training Planning Department of the Flotilla.