Research, ideas, and leadership for a more secure, peaceful world
Kuleba - who served as Ukraine’s chief diplomat during the first two-and-a-half years of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine - is internationally recognized as one of the most influential diplomats of his generation and a global champion for democracy, freedom, and resilience.
Cambridge, MA – December 04, 2024 – The Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard Kennedy School has announced the appointment of former Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba as a Senior Fellow. Kuleba - who served as Ukraine’s chief diplomat during the first two-and-a-half years of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine - is internationally recognized as one of the most influential diplomats of his generation and a global champion for democracy, freedom, and resilience. His appointment underscores the Belfer Center’s commitment to addressing the world’s most pressing challenges in an era of deep geopolitical uncertainty.
As Ukraine’s top diplomat, Kuleba played a pivotal role in shaping his nation's wartime diplomacy and strengthening its relationships with the United States, European allies, and other global partners. He was instrumental in forging strategic alliances, securing vital military and economic aid, and bolstering democratic resilience. Prior to his role as Foreign Minister, Kuleba served as Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration and as a member of the National Defense and Security Council of Ukraine. These roles solidified his reputation as a leading architect of Ukraine’s foreign and security policy.
Meghan L. O’Sullivan, Director of the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at the Harvard Kennedy School, remarked, “Dmytro Kuleba has been a central figure in how Ukraine and the international community has dealt with one of the greatest challenges to the nearly 80-year-old liberal international order and Europe’s largest land-based war since World War Two. His leadership and strategic vision made him a transformative figure during this time. His appointment at the Belfer Center underscores our mission to prepare the next generation of leaders to understand and to navigate a complex and rapidly evolving world. His presence will be an inspiration to our students and a vital resource to our academic community.”
At the Belfer Center, Kuleba will focus on the intersection of diplomacy, security, and resilience, exploring strategies to counter autocracy, strengthen democratic institutions, and build sustainable international coalitions. He plans to write a book about the last several years, which promises to be a definitive account of the Ukraine war. Kuleba will engage with Harvard Kennedy School students, faculty, and fellows through seminars, lectures, and mentorships.
In addition to his diplomatic achievements, Kuleba has a distinguished academic background and a commitment to public service. His scholarly work focuses on international relations, law, and strategies to counter disinformation, reflecting his expertise in navigating the complexities of modern diplomacy.
Kuleba is the author of The War for Reality: How to Win in the World of Fakes, Truths, and Communities, which provides critical insights into combating disinformation and strengthening information security in an era of hybrid warfare. While serving as a non-resident Senior Fellow at the Belfer Center, Kuleba will remain based in Ukraine, making several visits to Cambridge, MA throughout the academic semester to engage directly with students, faculty, and the wider Harvard community. His blend of academic rigor and practical experience will complement the Belfer Center’s commitment to conducting policy-relevant research and training the next generation.