Anne W. Patterson: “We don't believe it is possible to have any sort of settlement there, either a political settlement or any military…”

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

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

Our differences with Russia, Iran, and the Assad regime are very substantial, but the benefits of ending this conflict are even greater.

The changes taking place across the region carry the promise of a more democratic political order that will benefit the region and the United States in the long term.