Michael Kofman
Senior Research Scientist
BIOGRAPHY
Michael Kofman is an expert on Russia, Eurasia and Pakistan. His research focuses on security issues in Russia and the former Soviet Union, specializing in defense and military analysis.
Kofman has advised senior military and government officials on Russia, Eurasia and Pakistan and represented the Department of Defense on numerous occasions before foreign officials and dignitaries. In addition to his role at CNA, he is a Kennan Institute Fellow at the Woodrow Wilson International Center. Kofman has published numerous articles on security issues in Eurasia, specifically Russia and Ukraine, and has appeared as a featured guest on broadcast news programs throughout the country.
Kofman holds an M.A. in Security Studies with a concentration in International Security from Georgetown University and a B.A. in International Affairs and Political Science from Northeastern University. He is fluent in Russian.
RECENT NEWS
October 12, 2019Michael Kofman says, "Russians perceive such capabilities to be strategic, and will never casually accept this type of arsenal being brought so close to its population centers or critical infrastructure."
Stars and Stripes: "USS Porter Enters Black Sea as Navy Continues to Boost Patrols in Tense Region"
October 4, 2019Michael Kofman says, "Lethal arms have yet to be used, and they were never going to make a substantial difference in Ukraine's ability to fight Russia."
Yahoo News: "Before a Notorious Phone Call, the Trump Administration Was Lauded for Helping Ukraine"
Michael Kofman says that Javelins are an "insurance policy" against Russian escalation.
Politico: "How U.S. Military Aid Became a Lifeline for Ukraine"
September 20, 2019Michael Kofman says, "The Russian strategy is based on the idea of being a major thorn in the side of the United States and hoping that over time, the United States will be irritated enough, or exhausted enough, to be willing to close out the competition and negotiate."
Kennan Institute: "Guns, Butter, and Russia's Enduring Power"
September 5, 2019Michael Kofman writes, "Russian strategy flows from a coherent vision about the relationship of technology, operational art, and strategy."
War on the Rocks: "It's Time to Talk About A2/Ad: Rethinking the Russian Military Challenge"
September 2, 2019Michael Kofman says, "A Russian-led operation is just going to pulverize them into oblivion, which is most likely how this ends."
Al-Monitor:"U.S. Calls on Russia to Cease Idlib Fight Amid Terror Strikes"
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Foreign MilitariesForeign PolicyEuropeRussia
CNA DIVISION
Adversary Analytics Program
