Russia and the West: what it all means for global businesses
Lt Gen Sir Nick Borton KCB, DSO, MBE, Commander, NATO Allied Rapid Reaction Corps
Nick Catsaras CMG, Director General for Russia and Ukraine, Cabinet Office
Rosemary Thomas OBE, former British Ambassador to Belarus
Mark Trevelyan, Chief Russia Writer, Reuters

Much has been written – and said – about Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and its impact on Europe and the broadern world. But as NATO and its allies harden their stance against Russia’s actions, the risks comes into sharp focus: all businesses with operations in Europe need to be aware of the immediate tactical issues of a long war, and the broader strategic implications of a weakened but dangerous Russia. In this discussion we’ll be joined by a several senior officials and observers who will discuss the conflict and the implications for large global businesses. Lt Gen Sir Nick Borton commands NATO’s Allied Rapid Reaction Corps, where he is closely involved in supporting Ukraine and contributing to NATO deterrence. Over a 35-year career, he served on military operations around the world, including Belize, Bosnia, Northern Ireland, Cyprus, Iraq and Afghanistan, where he commanded his Battalion in 2008, and was awarded the Distinguished Service Order. His later career has involved senior command positions, including 16 Air Assault Brigade and 3rd UK Division, and appointments running global operations and military strategy in the Ministry of Defence. He’ll be joined by Nick Catsaras, the Director General for Russia and Ukraine at the Cabinet Office. Previously Nick was Principal Private Secretary to the British Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary, and has filled a variety of senior civil service appointments in the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Cabinet Office. He was previously employed in the private sector for seven years and was a British Army officer for six years. We’ll also be fortunate enough to hear from Rosemary Thomas, former British Ambassador to Belarus. Rosemary’s multi-decade career with the FCDO has also included postings as Deputy Head, Europe North, Deputy Director Eastern Europe and Head of Communcations & Reporting at the EU Mission to Ukraine. And we’ll also hear from Mark Trevelyan, Reuters’ Chief Writer on Russia and the CIS, a long-term observer and expert commentator on Russian geopolitical and economic affairs. Mark has been following Russia for over 30 years, having been Reuters’ Moscow correspondent from 1991-1994, reporting the fall of the Soviet Union.

To be followed by a facilitated member discussion.

This session will commence with drinks, and will include light food.