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Abstract:
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In this paper I look at the evolving role of Russia in the Middle East , analyzing transfers of Russian military equipment to its main ally in the region , the Syrian Arab Republic . By using Syria as a case study , I provide insight as to the evolution of Russia’s Middle Eastern policy , examine the motivations that play a role in Moscow’s decision -making process and the discuss the changes that have taken place in the Middle East military landscape . My research illustrates that Russia is a prestige seeking state that is motivated my domestic issues . Furthermore , sixty years of arms transfers indicate that Russia has never sold game -changing weapons to Syria as this would be counterproductive to Moscow’s main goal in the region : the brokering of a new Middle East peace deal . |