DCFR Global Speaker Series

Moderator: Hon. Sidney B. Brooks

Date: Tuesday, November 18, 2025

Time: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Location: Denver Location (Provided to Registrants Before Event)

Provided: Snacks, beer and white wine

About the Event

Be part of a lively, intimate discussion about current issues challenging the U.S., Europe and NATO in a time of Russian aggression, European consternation, Ukraine struggling at war, and American indecision, withdrawal and uncertainty. 

Expect differing opinions, opposing positions and contrasting views. Come prepared to share your views and speak your mind about some of the most pressing international issues facing us today! 

Explore the Issue – Debate the Questions: A ‘DCFR salon’ is a social gathering where people respectfully discuss, exchange, and consider critical ideas, policy, and philosophy with respect to international relations and its impact on Colorado and the world.

Please note, DCFR Salons are members-only and it is limited to the first 15 guests. This is your chance to really get to know other members and learn from each other! 

Some questions to be debated:

  • Europe’s GDP is roughly  6-8 times larger than Russia’s yet Europe is seemingly intimidated by Russia – Why?  
  • Europe has been largely dependent on the U.S. for its safety and security since World War II:  Has that been a big mistake?   Why or Why not?   
  • The EU and NATO have adopted  policies of inviting former Soviet Republics into their fold – has this been a mistake or has it been wise?     
  • How should NATO deal with current and continuing threats and provocations from Russia?  
  • Today what two pieces of advice would you give to President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio concerning American foreign policy and Europe, Ukraine and Russia?   
A Few Topical Book Recommendations!

–    Putin by  Philip Short (2023)

–    Putin’s Russia: The Rise of a Dictator, by Darryl Cunningham (2022)

–    The Piratization of Russia/Russian Reform Goes Awry, by Marshall Goldman  (2003)

–    Petrostate/Putin, Power, and the New Russia, by Marshall Goldman

–    Twilight of Democracy, by Anne Applebaum

–    Autocracy, Inc., by Anne Applebaum

*Please visit our Global Affairs Speaker Dinners page to learn about our policies.