PSIA Seminar Discusses ‘Old Challenge, New Priorities: Deterring Russia and Smart Defense’

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YEREVAN, Armenia – On March 30, 2015, the American University of Armenia (AUA) Political Science and International Affairs (PSIA) program held a seminar entitled, “Old Challenge, New Priorities: Deterring Russia and Smart Defense” with speaker and PSIA alumnus Arman Gasparyan. The event was part of a series of PSIA seminars that are held every Monday at 3:30 PM. Dr. Simon Clarke, Chair of the PSIA program, introduced the speaker.

Gasparyan discussed the possibility of Russian aggression toward the Baltic region using “wargaming” techniques and scenario planning. His presentation sought to highlight the insecure condition of Eastern European NATO states toward Russian offensive action, as well as commented on the inefficiency of NATO’s Smart Defense project in providing protection to its member states should any Russian attack take place. Gasparyan concluded that none of the 28 existing Smart Defense multilateral projects anticipates intensive military actions on NATO soil.

Gasparyan’s research also included recommendations for European NATO member states to increase existing military personnel, find a common dialogue with their ethnic/Russian minorities, and for NATO to focus more on the protection of its eastern borders.

Founded in 1991, the American University of Armenia (AUA) is a private, independent university located in Yerevan, Armenia and affiliated with the University of California. AUA provides a global education in Armenia and the region, offering high-quality, graduate and undergraduate studies, encouraging civic engagement, and promoting public service and democratic values.

 

PSIA seminar discusses ‘Old Challenge, New Priorities: Deterring Russia and Smart Defense’

The event was part of a series of PSIA seminars that are held every Monday at 3:30 PM.