Concerning the ongoing Ukraine conflict, former National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice articulated that Russian President Vladimir Putin may not be inclined to end the war due to his perception of Ukraine. She stated that Putin doesn’t view Ukraine as a legitimate country and is instead focused on re-establishing what he perceives as the glory of the Russian Empire.
During a recent speech at Brown University, Rice emphasized the mounting pressure for the conflict, which has now persisted for four years, to conclude. She noted significant casualties on both sides and highlighted the detrimental impact on Russia’s vital oil and gas sectors, crucial to Putin’s power and wealth.
Call for a Ceasefire
Rice suggested that while a comprehensive peace treaty is unlikely, a ceasefire should be pursued. She expressed the necessity of finding ways to persuade Putin that the war must come to an end.
Brown University’s Distinguished Lecture Series
Rice’s address took place during the Stephen A. Ogden Jr. Memorial Lecture on International Affairs at Brown University. This event followed the appearance of her political counterpart, Hillary Clinton, underscoring a rare occurrence of hosting two secretaries of state in consecutive weeks.
During her talk, Rice shared insights on various subjects, including her experiences in foreign affairs, her academic background, and her upbringing in Alabama amid the Civil Rights Movement. She reflected on the Iraq War, expressing regrets about the intelligence failures that led to the conflict. She acknowledged that although Saddam Hussein’s removal was a positive outcome, many aspects of the situation were misunderstood.
Reflections on Iraq and Afghanistan
Rice remarked on the importance of alliances with tribal leaders in Iraq, which were overlooked initially. Her concern about Afghanistan was palpable, as she lamented the rapid withdrawal from the country and the implications for its women, who had made significant strides during the U.S. presence.
The Future of AI
Rice also commented on her role at C3.ai, where she observes developments in artificial intelligence. She highlighted the competitive landscape between the United States and China in AI technology, stressing the significance of securing a leading position in this sector. Rice characterized AI as a transformative force for society, urging for transparency and ethical considerations in its development.
Rice concluded her remarks by contrasting the democratic values of the United States with the authoritarian practices of China, underscoring a commitment to ensuring that democracy prevails in technological advancement.
