In the newest Trending Now presentation, hear a historian’s perspective on Russia’s recent turn to an assertive foreign policy and more authoritarian rule at home, presented by David McDonald, a UW-Madison History Professor and expert on the history of the Russian Empire. The talk offers several perspectives on Russia's recent political and international posture and the challenges it presents to the West, to Putin's government, and to citizens of the Russian Federation.

Discussion and Q&A. Refreshments provided by Monona Starbucks.

This event is filling up, but if you are on the waitlist or do not have a spot reserved, do not despair! We invite you to join us in the Municipal Room to watch a live video feed of Dr. McDonald's talk, thanks to our partners at Monona Community Media. Please do continue to register, even if you are on the wait list, so that we can have a good sense of anticipated attendance.