https://rt.com/news/609164-fyodor-lukyanov-after-syria-this/
The Russian narrative embracing regionalism[as predicted by Dr. Farrell(IMO).
Regionalism is becoming more central to geopolitical strategies/politics.
[like regional currencies, for example]
Yes, the most important step for the Russians is spelled out in these two paragraphs of the article:
"Most importantly, the symbolic quest to restore Russia’s great-power status—a key motivation behind the 2015 Syrian operation—is now obsolete. The only priority that matters is concluding the Ukraine conflict on favorable terms. Unlike in Syria, where Russia can pull back if needed, Ukraine represents an existential challenge. It is a war that Moscow cannot afford to lose.
This is the critical distinction: in the Middle East, the Kremlin has room to retreat and regroup. In Ukraine, there is no such option. The conflict there is central to Russia’s long-term security and global standing."