Russia Is Back

September 25, 2013 | http://www.eurasiareview.com/25092013-russia-back-analysis/
By Nandan Unnikrishnan
The one undisputed fact about the international tussle around Syria is the re-emergence of Russia as a major international player. The Russian proposal that Syria surrender its chemical weapons to international control has averted a costly and unpredictable military intervention in Syria. It has brought together countries — the West, led by the US, and Russia — that were seen as descending down the road of irreconcilable hostility. It has allowed, maybe temporarily, the reiteration of the importance of the United Nations in international relations.
Many western observers appear surprised by this transformation of Russia from a “spoiler” in international affairs into a positive force that is willing to work with the West towards a common goal. This surprise is an indication of how badly the Russians have been misunderstood.