On 7th-8th of March 2019, the Baltic Defence College (BALTDEFCOL) organised the Annual Conference on Russia already for the fifth time. This year’s conference was entitled “Western responses to non-linear challenges from Russia”. The conference concentrated on the concept of trans-Atlantic deterrence of Russia and its importance for security in wider-Baltic region, the multiple Russian military exercises in 2017-2018, the lessons learned from Russia’s actions in Ukraine, as well as the potential threats emanating from Russia´s military modernisation. A special attention was also paid to the NATO´s 70th Anniversary and 15th anniversary of accession of the Baltic states to NATO.

Annual Conference on Russia 2019 brought together over 300 high-level professionals, subject matter experts, academics, military leaders and students from across the globe. The opening speech of the Conference was delivered by H.E. Mr. Raimundas Karoblis, Lithuanian Minister of National Defence. H.E. Mr Vygaudas Usackas, Former EU Ambassador to the Russian Federation, Mr Janis Kazocins, National Security Adviser to the Latvian President and Mr Matthew Bryza, Ambassador and former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State were participating in the keynote panel “NATO at 70: Deterring Russia in an Era of Non-Linear Threats”. For the first time in the history of the conference, BALTDEFCOL current and former students delivered the Student and Alumni Panel as Conference on Russia is an integral component of our courses’ curricula. Altogether, the participants had an opportunity to discuss current developments within 10 panel sessions covering variety of topics delivered by notable speakers.

This year’s conference continued its role as a recognised academic gathering and platform for dialogue also enhancing multinational cooperation among the Allied nations and partners. BALTDEFCOL’s sincerest gratitude and highest appreciation goes to our speakers, participants and our partners - the city of Tartu and Tartu Conference Bureau; Embassy of Georgia in Estonia; US Embassy in Estonia; Konrad Adenauer Foundation; the University of Tartu; and Dorpat Conference Centre and Hotel for their respective contributions to this event. We hope to see everyone again next year.

More information about the conference, including photos of both days on Conference's website.