Russia
Despite a weakening economy at home, the Kremlin will continue to focus on foreign policy matters.
The geopolitical rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran will drive regional developments in 2016.
Concerned about developments on its southern border, Turkey will adopt a more assertive stance towards the Syrian and possibly engage in a limited intervention.
In an election year, the US will face a bold Kremlin, fractious Middle East and assertive China.
Turkey’s desire for a no fly zone over northern Syria has been frustrated by Russian intervention.
As Western leaders soften their stance over Bashar al Assad’s future, the groundwork for a political solution may be in the offing.