WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — On Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu to start withdrawing the Russian air group from Syria on Tuesday as it completed the assigned tasks.
"Assad has a stronger hand these days and that is a good thing given the alternatives," Xulam said on Monday. "Only such a balance of power could bring the greatest happiness to the greatest number of people [in Syria]."
The Kurds viewed Russia’s intervention as a positive force in Syria’s power politics, Xulam noted, but they were also wary that Moscow’s support would translate into the absolute rule of Syria by Assad.
Russia’s withdrawal also makes it clear that Assad has been humbled, which is a good thing in the eyes of the Kurds, Xulam pointed out.
"The Kurds would love to have a balance of power in Syria. Meaning: no group should be strong enough to dominate others and each group would have enough strength to withstand the encroachments of their neighbors."
The alternative has always been Libya, and Libya is no place to be given what is transpiring on the ground, Xulam suggested.
Given Assad’s position, Xulam observed, Putin is correct in saying that Russia has accomplished its goal in Syria.
"The alternative has always been Libya and Libya is no place to be given what is transpiring on the ground," Xulam concluded.
The Russian Aerospace Forces have been conducting an aerial campaign against terrorist groups in Syria, particularly the Daesh, since September 2015 at Assad's request.
