Putin's fear of "democratic revolutions" as well as the Obama Administration's pullback from the Middle East have given Moscow both motive and opportunity to pursue an assertive policy in this region.  Russia’s strategy has been to avoid taking sides in the multiple Middle East conflicts, while intervening decisively in the Syrian civil war.  Professor Katz will assess Moscow’s successes and prospects during the Trump era. 

Mark N. Katz is a professor of government and politics at George Mason University. He researches and teaches classes about Russian politics and foreign policy, revolution, and the "War on Terror".