Sir Roderic Braithwaite, who served as British ambassador to Moscow during the disintegration of the Soviet Union, spoke to members of Belsize Park-based u3a, many of whom have been studying 20th century Russian and Soviet history.
The 93-year-old former diplomat and author became ambassador to Moscow in 1988 when it was the Soviet Union led by Mikhail Gorbachev. He remained as ambassador to the newly formed Russian Federation until 1992.
Sir Roderic talked of his friendship with Gorbachev who he stayed in contact with after the former President of the Soviet Union resigned in December 1991 until his death in 2022.
He said Gorbachev was a decent man whose efforts to democratise his country’s political system and decentralise its economy were bound to fail, but who would be judged more favourably by history. He also answered a series of questions from the audience.
u3a, designed for those who are retired or have spare time in the day, runs a weekly programme of over 140 classes and activities, some available on Zoom, ranging from art appreciation to Yoga. The annual membership fee is £60, £10 if you are on certain benefits. It meets at the Old Hampstead Town Hall, close to Belsize Park tube station.
To find out more go to www.u3alondon.org.uk or call the office on 020 7692 544.
Sir Roderic Braithwaite (seated) with Mike Newman, coordinator of the u3a Peace and Conflict class who have been studying 20th century Russian and Soviet history.