Putin’s definately an interesting character... a throwback to the 70’s or so.
They meaning Russia wants to its naval base in Syria and hey are p;aying an interesting role with the eastern church. How this will play out betweeb it (the Russsian church) and Iran is an interesting question and how much influence it has with Putin will soom be discovered.
Actually Russia is a moderating force. Assad is not going to move against Israel and never had any intention of doing so and the Russians are keeping the Iraininas at bay by the role they’re playing there.
Melik Kaylan has an interesting pedigree, including writing for typical leftist rags like the NYT and Village Voice.
He’s also a Turk apologist who glosses over the Armenian genocide.