A Russian soldier on the advance in Syria, following the US pullout from this region, near Aleppo, in November 2018. US missteps in the Middle East are offering opportunities to Russia. Photo: AFP/Bekir Kasim/Anadolu Agency
Giovanni Pigni, Asia Times: US hit on Soleimani plays into Kremlin’s hands
On a complex chessboard, the US assassination grants Moscow immediate benefits – and wider regional potential
The US assassination of key Iranian General Qasem Soleimani potentially favors Moscow’s game in Syria, while the collateral benefits of Baghdad-Washington tensions offer the Kremlin opportunities in Iraq.
The killing, on US President Donald Trump’s orders, brought Tehran and Washington to the brink of open conflict which potentially could have had catastrophic consequences for the balance of forces promoted by Russia in the Middle East.
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Commentaries, Analysis, And Editorials -- January 13, 2020
Crisis for Iran may present an opportunity for Washington -- Julian Borger. The Guardian
The elite narrative on Iran brushes aside the fury of the Iranian people -- New York Post editorial
Iran won't target Strait of Hormuz over Soleimani killing: analysts -- Luke Baker, Reuters
Resistance Is Futile: The Real Reason Why China Seeks Submissive Partners -- Kathryn Waldron, National Interest
Is Somalia Poised for Economic Success? -- Ali Sharif Ahmed, National Interest
The Queen juggles compassion for Prince Harry and Meghan with protecting the Royal brand -- Samantha Hawley, ABC News Online
Britain secretly funded Reuters in 1960s and 1970s: documents -- Guy Faulconbridge, Reuters
Factbox: Who wants to replace Jeremy Corbyn? -- Reuters
How would the Space Force wage war? -- Mark R. Whittington, The Hill
Ten years after a CIA operation in Afghanistan went wrong, a slain officer's family celebrates his memory -- Ken Dilanian, NBC
The US and China will provide the main support to the world economy and financial markets -- Dr. Michael Ivanovitch, CNBC
The US election is about to begin. Here are key dates to watch in 2020 -- Peter Marsh, ABC News Online
