Russia's Ambition Could Be Unraveled in Syria - Is This the End?

Vladimir Putin is facing a critical juncture as his economy falters and his military struggles with his ill-fated invasion of Ukraine. The next 50 days present a unique opportunity for Eastern European nations to break free from Putin’s influence and assert their independence.

The Domino Effect:
In 1946, George Kennan warned of a “Domino Theory” where nations around Russia would fall into the Soviet Union. Now, we may be witnessing a reverse domino effect with countries breaking away from Russia. The recent events in Syria, where the rebel forces toppled the Al-Assad regime, highlight this trend.
Pro-Democracy Movements:
In Tbilisi, Georgia, protesters continue to demand an end to the pro-Russian ruling party and advocate for entry into the European Union. In Belarus, opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya calls for peaceful protests to challenge the Russian-backed President Alexander Lukashenko.
Economic Challenges:
Putin’s carefully constructed facade is starting to crumble. The Russian economy is spiraling towards stagnation, with inflation soaring and defense spending reaching a post-Cold War high. The collapse of support from Russia and Iran led to the surprising sweep of Syria by rebel forces.
Lessons from History:
The current situation echoes the economic stagnation and military overextension that led to the collapse of the Soviet Union. The unraveling of George Kennan’s Domino Theory signifies a turning point as nations move away from Russian influence.

Putin’s future hinges on the decisions made in the next 50 days, and President-elect Trump must recognize the significance of this moment. An approach of peace through strength, bolstering Ukraine’s position on the battlefield, and increasing pressure on Russia through economic means is crucial to bringing Putin to the negotiating table.

In conclusion, the time is ripe for Eastern European nations to assert their independence from Putin’s control. The decisions made in the coming days will shape the future of not just Ukraine, but also the broader geopolitical landscape. Peace through strength and unwavering support for Ukraine is the path to a lasting peace and stability in the region, while backing down or appeasing Putin would only serve to embolden aggression and threaten global security.