Celeste Wallander is the Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs at the U.S. Department of Defense, where she plays a crucial role in shaping defense and security policies. With a wealth of experience in government and academia, including serving as a Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Russia/Central Asia, she brings a deep understanding of international relations and security issues to her current position.

Her impressive background includes leadership roles in organizations such as the U.S.-Russia Foundation, American University, and the Center for Strategic and International Studies. An accomplished author and scholar, Wallander has published extensively on European and Eurasian security matters, with a particular emphasis on Russian foreign and defense strategies. She holds advanced degrees from prestigious institutions like Yale University and Northwestern University. With her expertise and dedication, Celeste Wallander is an invaluable asset in safeguarding national security interests.