My first article for Pacific Standard on Russia’s changing role after the Paris attacks, and how in committing to an expanded front against ISIS, France risks having the most to lose, while Russia has the most to gain.

When Russia’s Syria campaign launched in September, it was intended as a conspicuous display of strength and leadership amid the perceived inefficacy of the United States’ comparatively more measured strategy. But now, the tone of the campaign is of retaliation and retribution, of ultimately bringing the perpetrators to justice, wherever they may be.

(Photo: Ozan Kose/AFP/Getty Images)