**Fiona Hill Reflects on Global Power Dynamics and Populism's Rise**

*In a recent interview, Fiona Hill discusses the implications of populism on democracy, the evolution of U.S.-Russia relations, and the importance of education amidst rising global tensions.*

Fiona Hill, former advisor to Donald Trump and now a key figure in British defense policy, has returned to her roots, taking on the role of chancellor at Durham University in England. After years of shaping foreign policy and making headlines for her candid views, Hill embraces both her academic and advisory roles with enthusiasm. "Inability to act is the real challenge for all democratic systems," she believes, reflecting on the allure and pitfalls of populism that promise immediate solutions to complex issues.

At 59, Hill embraces her responsibilities at Durham University, balancing her commitments with visits to her hometown of Bishop Auckland, where her journey began. Her unique background, from a former coal-mining community to influential political circles, underscores her duality as both an analyst and an advocate for education. Describing her reflections during graduation ceremonies, she wonders about the future of work in an era shaped by technology, emphasizing that institutions must adapt to remain relevant.

With Britain facing growing global threats, Hill has been approached to co-author a strategic defense review, addressing the challenge posed by Russia's assertive policies and the U.S.'s waning influence in Europe. Hill argues that while occasional tough rhetoric from Trump may signal a shift, she believes it won't significantly alter Putin's behavior, as he perceives no genuine threat from a chaotic U.S. landscape.

Her collaborative defense review suggests a comprehensive societal approach to security, advocating for investments beyond military capabilities to include education and health systems, framing defense as a collective insurance effort. As she assesses the state of higher education, Hill raises concerns about its ability to meet the demands of a changing world, paralleling Durham's struggles with those of other once-prominent institutions.

In detailing her life's work, Hill draws parallels with historical moments of decline, suggesting that both the U.S. and Britain face similar vulnerabilities. She relates Trump's agenda to that of Boris Yeltsin, whose actions catalyzed the Soviet Union's fragmentation, signaling a shared peril amid rising populism. Despite the challenges, Hill notes Britain retains deep-rooted values and human potential, hoping for recovery post-Brexit and acknowledging that there's always room for improvement even amidst difficulties.