The United States has decided to put special forces on the ground to assist opposition forces fighting against ISIS. This is significant because it is the first time that actual United States troops will be put on the ground in Syria, our prior involvement was limited to air support. Russia, in response, warns that this will create the risk of a proxy war.
The potential of a proxy war is quite serious, as it could raise US/Russia tensions even higher. Given that the number of involved US forces is small (less than 50 soldiers), the chance of conflict is low, but it will be important for the two militaries to openly communicate about their actions. However, any hope of true cooperation between the two powers in Syria is quite low, given that they are supporting opposing sides in the civil war.
Currently, the bulk of US and Russian tension lays in Syria, and the outcome of its civil war will have a significant effect on the relationship between the two global powers.
Blane Erwin
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