0:00 Introduction
3:09 Political vs. economic change in era of glasnost and perestroika
7:42 US policymakers’ understanding of Russian realities in 1990s
15:42 The process of foreign policymaking vis-à-vis Russia (opportunities & constraints for ambassador)
23:49 How the U.S. embassy in Moscow navigated the priorities of different U.S. governmental actors
30:01 Example of advice from the embassy not heeded in Washington (Y2K)
38:09 How appreciation for culture helps a diplomat
45:41 Main takeaways from engaging with Russia through Ambassador Collins’ service
57:48 Did the removal of barriers to communication fuel greater understanding between the U.S. and Russia?
1:08:02 Timing diplomatic initiatives in the context of U.S. – Russia relationship
1:19:24 Overarching organizing principles that structure U.S. foreign policy
1:31:25 Closing words and credits
Interview conducted October 12, 2021.
