YEREVAN.- Russia will actively defend its interests in the Middle East, political analyst Levon Shirinyan told reporters on Tuesday.

Calling Syrian conflict “a dispute of civilizations” the analyst spoke about Turkey’s role in the developments. According to Shirinyan, Turkey must fear it can face the same problems, taking into account dozen of ethnic minority groups residing in the territory of Turkey.

As to Syria’s importance for Russia, the analyst believes if Moscow loses Syria it will lose the entire region. If Russia continues its policy, the Alawis may get victory in Syria. Russia has no place to surrender, he said supposing Moscow can use all means, including tactical and nuclear weapons.