RUSSIAN FOREIGN POLICY TOWARDS THE SYRIAN CRISIS DURING THE PERIOD (2011-2017)

Abstract

The Russian position in relation to the Syrian crisis was decisive since the beginning and characterized by clear and explicit determination to support the Syrian regime politically, militarily and economically. This is manifested in Russia’s use of the veto several times in the Security Council against draft resolutions condemning the Syrian government, leading to direct military intervention in Syria. Hence, Russia’s justification has been to save the Syrian State and its institutions and unity; as well as preventing Syria from being a safe area for terrorist and extremist organizations. In addition, it has emphasized supporting negotiation and the settlement of the crisis through political and diplomatic solutions and rejection of any foreign military intervention in Syria to avoid repeating the Libyan and Iraqi issues. Syria is experiencing one of the most serious challenges in its modern history. There have been varied regional and international reactions, especially the Russian and American ones, toward the Syrian revolution that seemed similar to other Arabic revolutions in terms of causes, motives and slogans. However, the actions and reactions between the government forces and the armed opposition in the light of overlapping regional and international parties have converted the local content and context of Syrian revolution into a regional, international crisis.