Photo By Sgt. 1st Class Edward French | Sebastian von Münchow, Ph.D., professor of Regional Security Studies, discusses how...... read more read more
At the Western Balkans Forum, held in Garmisch-Partenkirchen from Aug. 26-28, 2025, Marshall Center faculty explored how external powers use strategic competition to shape the region.
Professors Graeme Herd, Ph.D., and Marc Ozawa, Ph.D., discussed how Moscow employs political, cultural, and energy tools to exert influence.
“Europe has reduced its dependence on Russian energy, but that doesn’t mean Russian influence is gone,” said Ozawa. “As its energy leverage declines, Moscow will likely turn to other hybrid tools, from information operations to political interference, in the Western Balkans.”
“Russia sees the Western Balkans as a buffer zone,” added Graeme.
Their insights underscored the importance of resilience, cooperation, and diversified energy strategies to blunt foreign pressure and strengthen regional security.
During the opening session of the forum, Dr. Sebastian von Münchow, Ph.D., professor of regional security studies, reminded participants why this work matters:
“The stability of Southeast Europe is critical for European-led deterrence and defense. The Western Balkans must continue to move forward on Euro-Atlantic integration, while also strengthening regional ties to resist corruption, organized crime, and foreign malign influence.”
The Marshall Center, with its dedicated cadre of security experts, provides a platform where regional and international practitioners confront the challenges and opportunities of the modern security environment. By fostering dialogue and cooperation through events like the Western Balkans Forum, the Marshall Center supports European-led security and deterrence.
| Date Taken: | 09.01.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 09.19.2025 04:25 |
| Story ID: | 548369 |
| Location: | BAYERN, DE |
| Web Views: | 19 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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