The Russian aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov, flagship of the Russian fleet, entered the Mediterranean last weekend, with a long stream of media interest. It is a symbol of Russia’s intention to influence events in Syria, with its land-based aircraft already there. Between 8 November and 20 January, there is a danger that power in Washington will be at a standstill. It is the time between the next presidential election and his/her inauguration. Key international decisions will not be made during that period. If the US administration changes, its non-interventionist policy may also change. Hillary Clinton supports a no-fly zone over Syria. Donald Trump has many friendly contacts in Russia. We can pray for Russia to resist the temptation to take advantage of America’s season of change, and not to act more aggressively in the region of Aleppo. If the next American president decides to act more forcefully, they could deploy an aircraft carrier to the region within a few days.