As the most powerful outside actor, Russia is increasingly blamed for the misery visited on Syrian civilians. Throughout Syria, the volatile mix of forces — including Russian mercenaries whose fate is causing headaches at home — risks amplifying the violence and deepening Russia’s involvement. The differences with Damascus were starkly evident at a Middle East conclave in Moscow in late February. In a speech, one of Mr. Assad’s closest advisers, Bouthaina Shaaban, omitted all mention of a negotiated settlement. In Moscow, Middle East experts and military analysts noted that divisions within the Russian government, particularly within the Ministry of Defense, contribute to the gap between Russia and Syria.

Source: New York Times March 08, 2018 22:03 UTC