How U.S. Political Elites Perceive Black Sea Security Since Crimea's Annexation

This seminar examines how U.S. political elites have perceived Black Sea security since Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea and how those perceptions have evolved in the context of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Drawing on elite interviews and primary documents, the seminar explores how the Black Sea has gained importance in U.S. strategic thinking not only as a military and geopolitical space, but also as a critical corridor for energy transit, grain exports, and maritime security. It highlights how these evolving perceptions have reinforced the region’s significance in wider debates about deterrence, regional order, and U.S. policy toward the Black Sea region.

Admittance is on a first come–first served basis. Tea and Coffee Provided.

Image Caption: U.S. Marines with Black Sea Rotational Force 18.1 observe a target to be engaged with an FGM-148 Javelin anti-tank missile launcher during a deployment for training exercise at Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria, July 5, 2018.