Symposium
Four years of war in Ukraine: European security, technological innovation, and the future of warfare
- Date
- Tuesday 24 February 2026
- Time
- Explanation
- Open to the public | registration required
- Location
-
University Campus Spui
Spui 5
2511 BL The Hague - Room
- 1B.10
In February 2026, it will be four years since Russian forces launched their full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a war that has caused immense human suffering. Ukrainian sovereignty was safeguarded in large part by unprecedented and costly technological innovation and adaptation on the battlefield. From drones and other uncrewed systems to digital command structures and new forms of civil-military cooperation, these developments are fundamentally reshaping how wars are fought today and how they will be fought in the future. What can Ukrainian experiences tell us about the future of warfare in Europe and how can the Netherlands best help Ukraine? On February 24, Leiden University, together with KBVBK and RAND Europe, will organise a symposium at the Spui Campus in The Hague to mark four years of war in Ukraine.
Programme (Preliminary)
- Short presentation on Project Ukraine
- Short introductory interview between Ruth Harris and the Ukrainian Ambassador
- Panel discussion (moderated by Frans Osinga)
- Julia Soldatiuk-Westerveld (Clingendael Institute)
- A representative of the Ukrainian Ministry of Digital Transformation
- Paul van Hooft (RAND Europe)
- Jacob Parakilas (RAND Europe)
Topics: Lessons from Ukraine for military adaptation, technological innovation on the battlefield, civil-military cooperation, and resilience in defense industries.