Power and Profit over People
The Screaming Lesson from Syria.
Dear Nyaaba
Almost a decade ago, Barack Obama drew a red line and threatened mayhem if it was crossed.
It was crossed!
Russia had not so surreptitiously aided the Assad regime to kill and maim and imprison and torture.
There was, as a result, a stalemate, some calling for action from Obama, and he electing not to.
For what reason, some say peace, others say cowardice.
Syria burned on until by sheer brute, Assad recalibrated his forces and once again, held the people in a vice-like grip.
Then the world forgot about Syria as new theaters appeared.
Syrians were abandoned.
By all, even the United Nations, I daresay!
After incomparable grit, blood, sweat and perseverance, Syrians are at last free from the mindless despotism of Assad.
But besides freedom what do they have?
Where is everyone?
Where is Russia?
Where is the United States?
The silence of Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Joe Biden amid the ongoing collapse of Syria reflects a stark reality about global power dynamics: major powers often act only when their interests are directly at stake. Over the years, Russia for example, has played a critical role in shaping Syria’s trajectory, intervening decisively in 2015 to prop up the Assad regime.
This intervention was touted as a move to combat terrorism, but it was primarily motivated by Russia’s desire to preserve its influence in the region, maintain its Mediterranean naval base at Tartus, and project itself as a dominant player in Middle Eastern geopolitics.
Today, as Syria faces deepening humanitarian crises, economic collapse, and internal fractures, Putin’s reticence is revealing. Russia’s focus has shifted, with Ukraine dominating its attention and resources. Syria, once a strategic cornerstone, now seems less of a priority.
The war in Ukraine has strained Russian military capabilities, forcing a recalibration of its foreign engagements. Additionally, Moscow’s economic struggles due to sanctions and the cost of war mean it has limited capacity to sustain its influence in Syria without tangible returns.
This disengagement underscores a broader truth: global powers often champion interventions in weaker states under the guise of humanitarian concerns or counterterrorism, but these actions are frequently driven by self-interest. Once their objectives are met—or the costs outweigh the benefits—they quietly withdraw, leaving these nations to grapple with the aftermath.
The U.S. has similarly deprioritized Syria, focusing on other strategic interests, leaving the region vulnerable to renewed conflict and extremism.
As Syria crumbles under neglect, it becomes clear that international interventions, whether by Russia, the U.S., or other powers, rarely prioritize the long-term well-being of the nations involved. Instead, they serve as theaters for geopolitical competition, with the people caught in the crossfire often forgotten. Putin’s silence is not just a Russian issue and neither is Biden’s just an American concern, it is a symptom of a global system where power and profit often eclipse human lives.
Respectfully yours
The Honourrebel Sirigu boy
About Author
