In 1999, British soldiers deployed to Kosovo in the western Balkans as part of a Nato-led peacekeeping force. The region had become unstable as the majority ethnic Albanian population grew increasingly resistant to Serbian rule.

Eventually, over 40,000 Nato troops would deploy, supported by a contingent of Russian soldiers. However, the close proximity of this co-operative effort led to growing tensions between the two partners.

In this fascinating talk, Professor Tracey German will examine the legacy of the conflict, assessing what was learned by both Nato and Russian forces. She will also consider how the campaign was a pivotal moment in Russia’s post–Cold War evolution.

Professor Tracey German is a Reader in the Defence Studies Department at King’s College London. Her research focuses on Russian foreign and security policies, particularly Russia’s use of force in the post-Soviet space, conflict and security in the Caucasus and Caspian regions, and the impact of Nato/EU enlargement on Russia’s relations with its neighbours.

The Legacy of Kosovo