Great Powers Competition in Syria

Abstract

This article examines the impact of the rivalry among the three great powers: the United States, Russia, and China in relation to a solution to the Syrian crisis and the reaching of a peaceful settlement. Each power has supported one or more sides among the regional and local actors, which has led to proxy wars among different rival parties. For example, the United States, Russia, and China are trying to maximize their own power and to increase their status in the regional and international system. However, each has different strategies and tools to achieve this goal. While Russia and the United States stress their military presence, China thinks political and economic power can be more effective, which explains why China is hesitant to get directly involved in the crisis.