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At the Federalist Society’s 2022 National Lawyers Convention, the International & National Security Law Practice Group hosted a lively discussion on the Russian invasion of Ukraine and its implications for international law, order, and security. Judge Chad Readler moderated the discussion, which featured panelists Michael Allen, Judge Marshall Billingslea, retired Major General (Retired) Charles Dunlap Jr., and Professor Angela Stent.
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine marks the latest attempt by Russia to reassert authority over former Soviet states as part of its Russian Grand Strategy. As it has done for its previous military engagements, Russia offered a legal justification for its use of force and violation of Ukraine’s right of self-determination. Many in the international community have condemned the invasion as a fundamental violation of international law.
With the first anniversary of the conflict approaching, the prospect of a protracted war threatening global security and scarring a region has become a reality. What now can be said for Russia’s claims, Ukraine’s options, international expectations, and modern conflicts? What effect will this conflict have on traditional legal expectations of international norms going forward? Our panel of experts discussed these complex, important issues and more.
View event details here.
Chief Counsel, Senator Ted Cruz
Mike Berry serves as Chief Counsel for United States Senator Ted Cruz. As Chief Counsel for Senator Cruz, Mike provides advice and counsel to the Senator with special emphasis on the Senate’s advice and consent role pertaining to judicial nominations.
Prior to working on the Hill, Mike spent many years in public interest litigation with various non-profits. Mike served for seven years as an attorney with the U.S. Marine Corps, leaving active duty in 2013. Among his numerous positions within the Marine Corps, Mike deployed to Afghanistan in 2008 and he served as an Adjunct Professor of Law at the United States Naval Academy. Mr. Berry continues to proudly serve our nation as a member of the Marine Corps Reserve.
Mr. Berry earned his bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University, and he earned his law degree from The Ohio State University.