[amorphous]

He probably would want a pipeline and tourist economy. The problem seems to be the fact Syria of occupiing prime real estate in the pathwar of oil getting to Europe from producers in the M.E.

Remember a few years back when Kerry was courting Assad? There were pictures of both of them and their wifes having dinner. Russia likely put the screws on any thoughts Assad may have of cozing up to the US pretty quickly. Again, Russia likes being in a position of control of oil flow to europe.

[caww]

..."Russia likes being in a position of control of oil flow to europe"....

They're by-passing Syria in that respect....all roads leading thru Turkey now....

It's Saudi that wants Syria for it's pipeline....

[caww]

Iran too is fighting to send their oil thru Syria....Saudi wants it as well.... Russia's just tired of the fighting getting in his way and the disruptions in the ME causing his agenda to get bogged down.