Speakers Series of South Haven: The Roots of Russian- American Discord

Thursday, March 31, 2022

by Jim Butterfield
Professor of Political Science and Global and International Studies at Western Michigan University

South Haven Campus of Lake Michigan College | 7 p.m.

Jim Butterfield, Professor of Political Science and Global and International Studies at Western Michigan University, specializes in Russian history and the States of the former Soviet Union. He will explore the roots of discord between the US and Russia and discuss why Russia acts the way it does toward the US and the West. He will also talk about its view of the West as hypocritical, its belief that the West took advantage of a weak Russia, and interfered in the internal affairs of others such as Kosovo, Ukraine and Georgia. He believes that both the US and Russia poorly understand one another. Russia’s relationship with its neighbors – especially Ukraine – has further complicated its interactions with the West. Butterfield will further situate the tensions in the current era of tripartite great power competition among the US, Russia and China. His lifetime of study of Russia has included over 40 visits for teaching assignments and research experiences there.

Admission is $10. Students, educators, and clergy are admitted free. The doors will open 30 minutes prior to the presentation. COVID protocols will be observed.