By establishing a strategic presence in Syria, Russian President Vladimir Putin is securing the future of a vital ally in the Middle East.
Moscow does not want to escalate confrontation with the West over Syria beyond the current level without what it sees as good reason. In general, Russia’s behavior in the Middle East has been largely defensive, with only isolated and mostly inept attempts to inflict harm on the West.
If Jordan is to confront its national challenges and continue to provide a safe haven for Syrian refugees, the country will depend on increased international support.
A recently released statement by a large group of Syrian rebel factions seems to show some level of support for the peace process initiated by United Nations.
Last week’s conversation between the defense chiefs of the United States and Russia demonstrates the important role that Syria has come to play in U.S.-Russia relations.
With the migrant crisis in Europe reaching new levels, Aron Lund interviews Mouaffaq Nyrabia on the war in Syria and the opposition’s relationship with the EU.
Despite recent diplomatic efforts to end the Syrian conflict, the Assad regime continues to be buttressed by its Russian and Iranian allies.
The world powers agree that the Islamic State must be defeated, even though they disagree on how to do it. In spite of Washington’s anger with Russian activism in Syria, a degree of coordination is advisable.
Every week, a selection of leading experts answer a new question from Judy Dempsey on the foreign and security policy challenges shaping Europe’s role in the world.
To the Kremlin, Assad is not the source of the problem in Syria—he is actually the way to solve it.












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