Let us remember that before Putin, the Soviets were backers and suppliers of Asad’s father and have long used the port that is in the news as their Mediterranean Sea supply base. thus to be ‘surprised’ at Putin supporting Asad, is showing an ignorance of Cold War history.
Yes, the Soviets supported Asad’s father, and they are supporting Asad. Note also that Russia is sending a nuclear missile launching sub to Syria. It carries 20 SLBMs with up to 10 warheads each. I wonder what they are targeted against.