Publication Date February 25, 2025

The Folly of Realism is a difficult book to read, let alone review. I have such admiration for Alexander Vindman and am so deeply saddened by the recent exposure of the new U.S. administration’s seemingly abrupt turnaround from stalwart defender of Ukraine against the Russian invasion to now being a Russian ally and defender. It is horrifying to see what is unfolding, and I am not sure it is a good time to evaluate either the situation in general or this amazing book in particular.

But here we are.  The subtitle reveals a lot about the content: “How the West Deceived Itself About Russia and Betrayed Ukraine.” Vindman is in a unique position, and he is well aware of both past and present mistakes in the complex relationships involving the U.S., the Soviet Union, Russia, and Ukraine. It is  incredibly complex and I admire the work that went in to try to make this mess understandable. Five stars, with thanks to Public Affairs and NetGalley for providing a copy in exchange for my honest review.