Since the dissolution of the Soviet Union 27 years ago, Russia has been both a central figure in our foreign relations and a surprise actor in our domestic politics. Given the unprecedented attention paid to our Cold War foe, how did we get here? Ambassador Michael McFaul may have some answers. McFaul served as the seventh United States ambassador to Russia from 2012-2014 and is one of America’s leading scholars, with unparalleled insight into the Russian Federation and how it functions.

in his new book, From Cold War to Hot Peace, McFaul shares his knowledge and provides a unique perspective on one of today’s most contentious and consequential international relationships. Come listen to reflections on U.S.-Russia relations, election interference, the rise of the hostile, paranoid Russian president and a firsthand account of McFaul’s ambassadorship.