Future War and the Defence of Europe
Event Description
As Russia intensifies its campaign in Ukraine and continues provocations along NATO’s borders, Europe faces one of its most serious security challenges since the Cold War. With US support under increasing uncertainty, the question looms large: can Europe unite to defend itself?
Lieutenant General Ben Hodges, former Commander of NATO Allied Land Command and US Army Europe, brings a critical American perspective to this urgent debate. Drawing on his extensive military experience and recent visits to Poland, Latvia, and India, he will assess the current trajectory of the war in Ukraine and its implications for Europe’s future security.
General Hodges has long been recognised for his clear-eyed foresight. In early 2022, he warned of the near certainty of a new Russian attack—weeks before the invasion began. Today, he cautions that Europe possesses both the capacity and the capability to respond to Russian aggression—if it can muster the political will.
This timely discussion will shed light on Europe’s preparedness for an evolving conflict and the broader geopolitical landscape shaping tomorrow’s security environment.
Topics to be covered:
- The evolving state of the war in Ukraine and Russia’s next moves
- NATO’s role and the limits of European defence capability
- US–European relations under shifting American foreign policy priorities
- Russian drone incursions in Poland and Romania and their wider significance
- The implications of Russian military exercises in Belarus
- Russia’s deepening ties with India and other global actors
- What Europe must do to deter further escalation and defend its future
Exclusive Dinner
Following the discussion, a private dinner will be held at The New Club, offering a unique opportunity for a more informal conversation with Lt. General Ben Hodges and fellow attendees.
Attendance at the dinner will be limited.
If you would like to be considered for a place at the table, please indicate your interest by emailing andrew@asiascot.com. Selected guests will receive a follow-up email with a link to purchase a dinner ticket (£60 per person).
Speakers
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Lt. General Ben HodgesFormer Commanding General, U.S. Army EuropeLieutenant General (Ret.) Ben Hodges is one of the most respected voices in transatlantic defence and security. A distinguished U.S. Army officer with nearly four decades of service, he most recently served as Commanding General of U.S. Army Europe (2014–2017) and as Commander of NATO Allied Land Command (2012–2014).
Throughout his career, General Hodges held key leadership roles across Europe, Iraq and Afghanistan, shaping NATO strategy and strengthening U.S.–European defence cooperation. Following his military service, he has remained a leading commentator on European security, the war in Ukraine, and the evolving role of NATO.
He is currently a Senior Advisor to Human Rights First, a Consultant for NATO, and a regular contributor to international media, including the BBC, CNN, and The Economist. His analysis is widely valued for its strategic foresight and practical understanding of modern warfare and alliance dynamics.
General Hodges continues to advocate for a united and capable Europe, warning that while the continent possesses the means to defend itself, it must find the political will to act decisively in the face of emerging threats.
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Professor Kristen HarknessProfessor of International Relations, University of St AndrewsProfessor Kristen Harkness is an expert on civil–military relations and the politics of security in fragile and conflict-affected states. Her research examines how military institutions shape regime stability, democratisation, and conflict, particularly in Africa. She is the author of When Soldiers Rebel: Ethnic Armies and Political Instability in Africa (Cambridge University Press) and has advised governments and international organisations on defence governance and security reform.
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Matthew HendersonIndependent Asia SpecialistMatthew is a former diplomat who worked for the then Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) for 29 years. About a third of his activity was focused on China and East Asia, and his postings included Hong Kong and Beijing. He has travelled extensively, including in China and Mongolia.
Prior to joining the FCDO Matthew spent 8 years studying Chinese history, culture and language at the Universities of Cambridge, Peking and Oxford. Since leaving government employment Matthew has worked as a specialist on East Asian and global security with various think-tanks, consultancies and media organisations.
Matthew sits on the Asia Scotland International Advisory Council.