Syria: Naval Confrontation Russia - US In The Making ? - by RM

Russian Navy Ships In  Mediterranean Manoeuvres

Sixteen months into an uprising that has now grown increasingly chaotic over the course of this year and the possibility of a political solution to the crisis in the offing seems more grim than ever. 

In the background of the ongoing drama in this key Middle Eastern country now also looms the shadow of escalating naval tensions in the eastern Mediterranean.

The West and its Arab and Turkish allies are demanding concessions from Russia on its position in Syria, concessions which Moscow finds far too lopsided. 

Consequently Russia and China wielded their third veto on Thursday on a Syria resolution which Russia fears could be interpreted as an authorization for military action. Moscow wants to hold on to political negotiations and is groping for ways to keep the dialogue on Syria alive. In the meantime, it is strengthening its naval power in the region.

Even though most military experts doesn’t foresee a deliberate clash between the two  major powers in the Eastern Mediterranean, one should not underestimate legitimate concerns about the possibility of an accidental  mistake resulting in a clash which spirals out of control.

Unfortunately the Syrian crisis could than boil-over into a naval face-off that could destabilize the Middle East and pose a potential threat to world peace.

The relationship between Russia and Syria can be compared to that of the US and South Korea. So just like the US would strike back at every aggressor which attacks South Korea, Russia can be expected to do the same when it concerns Syria..

"Playing chicken" is a very dangerous game when it concerns Russia and its partner Syria.

EU-Digest