Anne W. Patterson: “The solution can only come through a political transition.”

The promotion and defense of these values has been a cornerstone of the Obama administration's foreign policy.

A destabilized Syria is not just a threat to us and neighbors, but it is also a threat to Russia.

We will continue our efforts to promote democracy and universal rights, and we will stand up for the rights of women, Christians, and other minorities.

There is no military solution, and the international community cannot afford a continuation of the status quo.