Russian-US relations will remain a key uncertainty. Donald Trump's surprise victory has opened a window of opportunity to normalize bilateral relations, at least on issues where progress can be made relatively quickly. The proxy war in Syria can be stopped, but this outcome depends above all on Russian-US relations and the general war-weariness. Key roles in ending this proxy war will be played by regional powers - Turkey and Iran. Vladimir Putin knows better than to expect too much of Donald Trump. He's been disappointed by new U.S. Presidents before. This book makes an interesting reading for historians, defence and policy analysts, researchers and general readers alike.