The downing of the Russian Su-24 by the Turkish Air Force and Washington's tacit approval of Ankara's actions following the treacherous attack was certainly a reflection of their anxiety over the Russo-Syrian advance, according to Salman Rafi Sheikh, a research-analyst of International Relations and for Pakistan's foreign and domestic affairs.
"A strong state of Syria, purged of every type of terrorist organization, would be a threat to Turkey's un-real dream of re-enacting itself as Ottoman Empire in miniature. While this may be Turkey's vital interest vis-à-vis Syria, 'the West' has larger strategic objectives to achieve out of this conflict," Sheikh writes in his article for New Eastern Outlook.
"In fact, the US' priority is the prospect of an Anglo-American caucus emerging within the US-led coalition as its 'steel frame' so that things remain under control. Russia's induction, on the other hand, might altogether change the alchemy of the coalition, make it unwieldy and shut the door on any future prospect for NATO assuming the role of a peacemaker or peacekeeper in the Middle East," Sheikh elaborates.
According to the analyst, the White House would prefer it if Russia was excluded from the future political settlement in Syria thus untying Washington's hands. However, it seems that the opposite might happen in near future.
"With Russia all set to intensify its campaign with or without any coalition, the US and its allies seem to have unwittingly fallen a poor prey to what can better be called their folly of judgment," Sheikh concludes.
