Brian interviews Alexander Motyl, Rutgers University political science professor and deputy director of the school's Division of Global Affairs. Alexander is noted for his prolific writings on contemporary politics in Eastern Europe, Ukraine, and Russia, as well as for more theoretical explorations into the nature of nationalism, empire, and revolution. Over the past two and a half decades, he has written six books of nonfiction and contributed dozens of articles to academic and policy journals, newspaper op-ed pages, and magazines. This conversation explores the state of the conflict in Ukraine as of early 2024, the perspectives of the combatant leaders and governments, the potential long term goals of Russia in Eastern Europe, and the overall regional dynamics in the area including commentary on the Baltic nations, Hungary and Serbia. Brian and Alexander also discuss the lack of a unified international condemnation of the Russian invasion and the potential outcomes of the conflict. Alexander also offers a bold, but informed, prediction about where the conflict is likely headed by 2025 and beyond and the potential consequences for the entire world. To learn more about Alexander:

• Website: Rutgers University profile
• Novels Mentions in the Show: Vovochka: The True Confessions of Vladimir Putin's Best Friend and Confidant and Pitun's Last Stand: An Entertainment about the Fall of Russia
• X: https://twitter.com/alexanderjmotyl
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-motyl-9847877
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aleksandrmotyl/

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