Although in recent weeks the end of the Assad regime has appeared increasingly imminent, Russia has continued to support the regime consistently and uncompromisingly. Together with support from China, this Russian backing, evident since the start of the uprising in Syria some eighteen months ago, provides life support for the shaky Assad regime. Sparking friction with the international community, this support ignores the damage it causes to Russia’s relations with the West and with countries in the region that are working to overthrow the Assad regime. Even now and in the face of increasing pressure, it does not appear that Russia intends to withdraw its support.
