Join the Wilson Center's Kennan Institute for an online talk with several experts on the effects of U.S. sanctions in Russia. 

The American response to Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine in 2014 and its electoral interference in 2016 cemented sanctions as America’s primary response to Russian malign activity. This panel will discuss the effectiveness and different angles (diplomatic, economic and political) of the U.S. sanctions regime on Russia. Former Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs and Former Ambassador to the United Nations and Russia Thomas R. Pickering will address the increased reliance on sanctions, both with Russia and Iran, in U.S. foreign policy and whether they are an appropriate substitute for traditional diplomacy. Daniel Ahn will analyze the economic impact of Russian sanctions and to what extent Russia has learned to live with – and get around – U.S. sanctions.  Finally, Randi Levinas will discuss the political aspect of U.S. sanctions, especially the increased involvement of Congress in the implementation and enforcement of sanctions. Such a broad overview will provide an accurate assessment of America’s Russia sanctions program and whether it can continue to serve as the cornerstone of U.S. policy with Russia.  

RSVP is requested; information can be found at this link.

Speakers:

Thomas Pickering, vice chairman, Hills and Company; former Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs and former U.S. Ambassador to Russia and the UN

Daniel Ahn, managing director, chief U.S. economist, head of macroeconomic strategy, BNP Paribas

Randi Levinas, executive vice president and chief operating officer, U.S.-Russia Business Council