RSSI’ve just had to change my pseudonym because, using a different browser for the last reply I was told that the details of name and identifying email were already taken and I was invited to Return to Commentary. When I did the pro forma details were as usual but I added a 2 to the name and it worked. Previously such episodes with Opel browser had cost me everything I had typed.
I’ve just read a very persuasive piece by George Friedman which suggests to me that the Russians intervention in Syria is partly to do with an eastern European, and specifically Ukrainian, settlement which would confirm Russia’s hold on Crimea, provide for some autonomy in Eastern Ukraine and keep a West leaning Ukraine out of NATO (and without NATO forces there).
However right that may be it occurs to me that part of the deal could include a secure Russia protected Assad ruled enclave in western Syria. Would that not suit several interested parties? Who would have the strongest objections and why?
I would nominate Turkey as the big objector. Maybe face could be saved in some places by Assad being forced to “democratic” election though even that would matter less in DC after Obama’s team departs.
Does that have to involve expulsions of Sunni? And, while I’m posing questions to someone who may have a reasoned view, where do you think better legal title to the Golan Heights would rank in Israel’s order of priorities, and with what weight?