Facing Coming Storms: Talking International Defence

Ukraine’s war is shifting fast—US support was halted temporarily, Russia's tank losses remain staggering European resolve is yet to be determined.In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, we unpack it all with George Barros (Institute for Study of War), Iuliia Osmolovska (Globsec Kyiv), and ex-British Army officer Nicholas Drummond.We explore Kyiv’s gritty fight, America’s exit shockwave, and Europe’s do-or-die moment. Peacekeepers? NATO rearming? Nuclear sharing? The stakes are sky-high. Is this Europe’s wake-up call—or Russia’s chance to dominate?Key moments10:50 - Perspectives from Ukraine18:26 - The Bigger Picture of Defence21:23 - Future of European Military Cooperation24:49 - Ukraine's Defence Strategy27:40 - The Complexities of US Foreign Policy36:38 - The Importance of Security Guarantees48:38 - Technology vs. Manpower in WarfareFacing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.

In this episode, I’m joined by Professor Nikolas Gvosdev of the US Naval War College, a leading expert in European and Russian international relations. Two months into 2025, with a new US president in office, we explore the shifting global order as America rethinks its traditional role.Nikolas offers sharp insights into how allies are adapting, while rivals like China wield their technological and shipbuilding strength to tip the scales. We discuss Ukraine’s defensive resilience, Europe’s push to lead—especially on Ukraine—and growing American scepticism about funding global security.Key moments7:45 - US Policy Shift: Insights from Munich Security Conference20:36 - Allies Adapting to US Retrenchment27:48 - The 'Iron Dome': A New Era of US Defence Strategy31:37 - Germany and Japan: Emerging Power Dynamics36:44 - Ukraine’s Future Role in European Security57:47 - Strategic Focus for Military LeadersFacing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.

In this episode, I am joined by Hayat Alvi, Associate Professor of National Security Affairs at the United States Naval War College. We explore the constantly changing dynamics of the Middle East and its impact on global defence. With over 18 years of experience teaching military and government personnel, Hayat shares valuable insights into the region’s complex political, economic, and cultural landscape.We explore topics like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the power balance within the Gulf states, and the shifts in Syria after the Assad regime’s collapse. Hayat also emphasises the importance of critical thinking and a deeper understanding of the region’s history and culture in military education.Key moments5:18 - The Complexities of Regional Dynamics13:05 - Historical Context of Peace Agreements27:41 - Iran's Geopolitical Weakening31:34 - Shifts in Global Alliances35:26 - The Collapse of the Assad Regime42:34 - Lessons for Military LeadershipFacing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.

In this episode, we’re joined by General Sir Nick Carter, one of the most influential British Army commanders of recent times. From commanding a battalion in Kosovo to leading as Chief of Defence Staff during some of the most pivotal moments in recent history, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the withdrawal from Afghanistan, General Carter offers a personal look at his remarkable leadership journey.He shares the challenges of leading multinational operations, navigating the unpredictable terrains of recent wars, and adapting to the evolving threats of the 21st century. We also discuss the strategic power of storytelling, the complexities of military resource management, and what it truly means to lead at the highest level. It’s a conversation filled with insight, reflection, and invaluable lessons from someone who’s been at the heart of it all.Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.

What does China’s growing military power mean for global stability? In this episode, experts former Rear Admiral Mike Studeman and Nigel Inkster discuss China’s rapid militarisation, its focus on Taiwan, and preparations for potential conflict. They explore China’s relationships with Russia and North Korea, and how these alliances are reshaping the global balance of power.With China’s expanding nuclear arsenal and stronger military, this conversation examines the strategies and ideologies driving its rise. As China becomes a dominant global force, Mike and Nigel offer insights into how the West can adapt to stay competitive in this shifting world order.Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.

In this episode, Brigadier Robbie Boyd and Rachel Rizzo join Peter and explore the shifting landscape of global security, revealing how NATO is adapting to the growing threats from Russia and China. As the U.S. pivots towards Asia and reduces its presence in the Middle East, Europe is stepping up to take on a far more prominent military role—an evolution that will reshape the future of defence.We uncover why strengthening alliances with European partners has never been more critical, and how NATO is rethinking its strategy to tackle the emerging challenges of the 21st century. From the rise of cutting-edge military technologies to the unpredictable dynamics of global power, this conversation explores how Europe is preparing for the next era of warfare and what it means for the future of international security.Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.

Major General Andrew Sharpe, a retired British Army general with expertise in military doctrine, joins former U.S. officer Rocco Santurri, who provides insights from the Korean Peninsula, and defence consultant Victoria Mackarness, who focuses on modern warfare. They discuss the shift from counterinsurgency to conventional warfare, the complexities of cyber threats, and the challenges of military strategies amid rising global tensions. The conversation highlights the gap between military and civilian societies and addresses the public's understanding of these evolving threats.