Russia is facing challenges in supporting the Assad regime in Syria due to the recent advances of anti-Assad rebels in Aleppo. Its previous successful partnerships with Iran and Hezbollah may be limited this time, exacerbating the threat to Russian interests as it remains preoccupied with the conflict in Ukraine.
Amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Russia faces a delicate situation in Syria, where it seeks to bolster the Assad regime against a resurgence of anti-Assad rebels. While the recent advances of these rebels in Aleppo have posed a significant threat to Russian interests, Moscow’s response has been relatively restrained. Historically, Russia has partnered with Iran and Hezbollah to support Assad effectively, but this time it appears to have limited leverage or incentives to offer its allies in the struggle for Syria’s future.
The Syrian civil war, entering its second decade, has seen shifting allegiances and military dynamics. Russia’s intervention in Syria began in 2015, aimed at stabilizing the Assad regime amidst a chaotic conflict. Iran, a key ally of Assad, has consistently supported the Syrian government, providing military assistance through various means. The recent momentum gained by Syrian rebels, particularly in Aleppo, highlights the volatile nature of the conflict and the challenges Russia faces in sustaining its influence in the region, especially with its resources diverted towards the ongoing situation in Ukraine.
In conclusion, as Russia remains entangled in the conflict in Ukraine, its support for the Assad regime in Syria faces new challenges. The rapid territorial gains made by anti-Assad forces underscore the precarious state of Assad’s rule and Russia’s waning ability to manipulate the situation to its advantage. Without substantial offers to Iran and its partners, Russia risks losing its foothold in Syria, further complicating an already chaotic geopolitical landscape.
Original Source: www.haaretz.com
