I shall be giving a talk entitled ‘Researching & Writing Sevastopol’s Wars: Causes & Continuities’ at King’s College London on Thursday, 1 June, about the research and writing of my recently published Sevastopol’s Wars: Crimea from Potemkin to Putin.

In this talk, I shall set out the purpose and main themes of my work, highlighting the continuities of Russian/Soviet strategy from 1783 to 2014 and the enduring spirit of of Sevastopol’s defenders in the Crimean and Second World Wars. I will describe the principal sources of material reflected in the book: British, French, German and Russian. In addition, I shall present my conclusions regarding the events of 2014, including some observations on Russian ‘hybrid warfare’, and attempt to debunk the rather simplistic view that Vladimir Putin’s primary objective in the annexation of Crimea was to shore up his domestic popularity (vide a recent review in a popular Sunday newspaper). Although such considerations may have played a part, I argue that his motives were longer-term and strategic.

Further details, including how to apply for a free ticket, are at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/researching-writing-sevastopols-wars-causes-continuities-lecture-tickets-33654088284

The talk is designed to start at 1730 hrs and close by 1900 hrs. Within this period, I intend to devote at least half the session to questions and discussion. Professor Bill Philpott, Professor of the History of Warfare in the Department of War Studies, has kindly agreed to chair the event.

I do hope to see many readers there, and in the meantime you can keep up to date on my other speaking engagements here.