Russia’s Military Intervention in Syria: Its Operation Plan, Objectives, and Consequences for the West’s Policies

Abstract:

The deployment and use of Russian air forces in Syria could be a turning-point for President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Since the start of the Russian air strikes on 30 September 2015, discussion has been rife in the media and in political circles as to what intentions Russia might be pursuing with its intervention in Syria.

However, if one takes into account the force package deployed to Syria, the manner in which the Russian air forces have proceeded, and the Kremlin’s official statements after the Assad visit to Moscow, the main features of an operation plan quickly emerge. It has repercussions far beyond Syria.