Playing Russian Roulette with Donald Trump: The Consequences for Ukraine, Europe and the World | ZHAW International Management Institute IMI

The return of Donald Trump to the White House and his willingness to shatter long-standing norms has brought a massive increase in geopolitical uncertainty. His approach to foreign policy - marked by unpredictability, transactional diplomacy, and rejection of traditional alliances - has already begun to reshape the global order. Nowhere is this more evident than in Ukraine, where U.S. support hangs in the balance, and in Europe, where leaders must navigate an increasingly volatile security landscape without the US leadership they relied on for so long.

Trump’s stance on NATO, his relationship with Russia, and his "America First" doctrine raise pressing questions: Will Russia be emboldened to create more trouble globally? Will Ukraine be able to survive without US military and financial aid and for how long? Are there actual perspectives for a ceasefire or stable peace in Ukraine under Trump’s leadership – or just a victory for Russia? Are European states strong enough and willing to step in and to take bigger responsibility for European security? Will the US even remain a global power after Trump’s trade policies take root?

This event brings together ZHAW experts in geopolitics, security, Eastern Europe, and international affairs to dissect the potential consequences of Trump’s policies. We will explore the consequences and strategic choices that Ukraine, Europe, and the broader international community face in this high-stakes moment.

Join us for an interactive discussion with our experts: