The Impact of the Russian-Turkish Proxy War in Syria on Stability in the Middle East

Abstract

This study aims to examine the nature of the proxy war between Russia and Turkey in the Syrian conflict, as well as the impact of the Syrian conflict on the stability of the Middle East. In this study, the author employs a qualitative research method, collecting data through a literature review. The concept of ‘proxy war’ is utilised to analyse the nature of the Russian-Turkish proxy war in Syria. Furthermore, to examine the impact of the Syrian conflict on the stability of the Middle East, the analysis is based on the concept of the ‘Regional Security Complex’. The findings of this study reveal that a proxy war is being waged by Russia and Turkey in Syria, taking the form of both soft power and hard power. Both countries provide assistance in the form of arms and military equipment, financial support, backing in international forums, and even direct military intervention. Consequently, this proxy war has led to instability not only in Syria but also at the regional and global levels.