Following a sold-out event at the International Affairs Forum (IAF) four years ago, former U.S. Ambassador to Russia John Beyrle will return to the lecture series Thursday to give a presentation entitled “Russia 2018:  Putin’s Last Act?” at NMC's Milliken Auditorium.

Beyrle served as the U.S. Ambassador to Russia from 2008-2012, and also served two other earlier tours in Moscow under both Republican and Democratic administrations. According to IAF, Beyre "has studied Russia all his life, is familiar with the best of Russian literature and culture as well as politics, and is a keen observer of what has been – and what is coming." A native Michigander, the speaker was an honors graduate of Grand Valley State University and the U.S. War College.

Beyrle will talk about the upcoming 2018 Russian election in March, President Vladimir Putin's 18 years as Russia's unchallenged leader, and the current uncertainty surrounding the U.S. administration and Putin. The event begins with a reception at 5:15pm, followed by the lecture at 6pm. Tickets are available for $15 at the door; admission is free for current students and educators. Beyrle's talk will also be live-streamed on the IAF YouTube channel.