As part of her teaching practicum, Nurmanova Dana, a second-year master student conducted an open seminar

As part of her teaching practicum, Nurmanova Dana, a second-year master student of the English group М064-3107-25-03 at the Faculty of International Relations of L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, conducted an open seminar on the topic “Containment and Nuclear Brinkmanship: Strategy under Pressure” of the disciple “US Foreign Policy Strategy” to 4-year students of educational program “6В03102 – International Relations”, B140-3102-23-05 group.

The aim of the seminar was to examine the development and application of U.S. Cold War strategy, focusing on Kennan’s containment strategy, the limits of American commitments, the Marshall Plan and NATO, and the Cuban Missile Crisis.

As a result of the seminar, students successfully examined the main principles and practical application of the U.S. containment strategy during the Cold War. They analyzed George Kennan’s concept of containment and discussed the debates surrounding the limits of American commitments and the extent of U.S. involvement in international affairs. Students also explored the role of the Marshall Plan and NATO in strengthening the Western response to the Soviet Union, identifying how economic recovery and collective security were combined as complementary elements of Cold War strategy.

Particular attention was given to the Cuban Missile Crisis. Students analyzed the role of intelligence, uncertainty, and competing policy options in the decision-making process and examined the potential consequences of different strategic choices. Through discussion and analytical activities, they assessed the importance of deterrence and credibility while identifying the risks associated with miscalculation and escalation during periods of international tension.