US incursion in Iraq entailed decades of instability in entire region -- Russian diplomat
- Russian Foreign Ministry claims US presence triggered regional instability lasting decades
- Anti-ISIS coalition presence officially ended September 12
- US and allied military bases handed over to Iraqi command
- Moscow cites 2003 invasion 'pretext' as root of modern Middle East turmoil
Brief Summary
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova is taking a victory lap, labeling the conclusion of the US-led coalition's 12-year presence in Iraq as the end of an era defined by American-induced instability. With coalition bases now under Iraqi military control, Moscow is framing the move as a long-overdue restoration of Iraqi sovereignty following the 2003 invasion.
Why This Matters
This shift marks a significant geopolitical pivot, signaling the waning influence of Western military power in the Middle East. As Iraq moves closer to regional autonomy and aligns with new security arrangements, you can expect shifting alliances that could impact global oil stability and the broader security architecture of the region. The departure of US forces effectively closes a chapter of massive taxpayer-funded intervention, leaving a power vacuum that regional rivals are already queuing up to fill.