UW Now Live: Global Hotspots, Risks and Realities

In the summer of 2026, the world seems plagued with problems, one of which is an actual plague. On the UW Now Live, host Mike Knetter brings in UW experts to talk about three of the issues driving the news: the Ebola virus outbreak in central Africa, the conflict in the Persian Gulf, and the war between Russia and Ukraine. Political science professor Jon Pevehouse discussed the war between the U.S. and Iran, in which a tenuous ceasefire had recently broken down. He described the difficulties that the U.S. faces and the reasons why Iranian leadership seems to be growing more intractable. Mark Copelovitch, who’s part of the UW’s Center for European Studies, talked about the increasingly rigied war between Russia and Ukraine, a war that Russia isn’t winning and Ukraine isn’t losing. And Peter Halfmann, a professor of pathobiological sciences, described the Ebola virus outbreak in central Africa, which he warns has probably four times as many people as are listed in official statistics. Knetter then brought forward questions from viewers, who ask about the issues speakers presented about as well as the Trump administration’s revived effort to gain control of Greenland. The Wisconsin Alumni Association® (WAA) is where Badgers belong. It’s the place for you to continue to engage with the university and other Badgers and enhance your Wisconsin Experience. All alumni and friends — wherever you live and whoever you are — are welcome in this global community that celebrates what makes being a Badger special. Whether you’re looking to build your Badger network, share your UW pride, or feel closer to the university, consider WAA your source for meaningful ways to connect back to the UW and move forward as a Badger. Learn more at uwalumni.com.