Putin went on record defending military intervention in Syria, and recommended that other nations consider assisting the Syrian regime in countering terrorism ISIS. He recommended coordinating with Assad to fight terror.
To defend propping up his ally is understandable, but recommending other nations, presumably European nations and America, to get involved directly was a strategic blunder. While it is true it would be easier assisting Assad, the West wants Assad out. They would rather see him fall even if that means longer war against ISIS.
Putin's offer could be used to backfire on Assad. Perhaps he believes the west won't intervene directly. But what's to stop American and European forces to set up a base inside free Syrian army held territory near Aleppo?
What's to stop Western forces taking an airbase inside Syria and propping up pro western forces directly? One could claim Putin just invited us.
To defend propping up his ally is understandable, but recommending other nations, presumably European nations and America, to get involved directly was a strategic blunder. While it is true it would be easier assisting Assad, the West wants Assad out. They would rather see him fall even if that means longer war against ISIS.
Putin's offer could be used to backfire on Assad. Perhaps he believes the west won't intervene directly. But what's to stop American and European forces to set up a base inside free Syrian army held territory near Aleppo?
What's to stop Western forces taking an airbase inside Syria and propping up pro western forces directly? One could claim Putin just invited us.
Posts
