CARTOON: Russian President Vladimir Putin seeks his targets in Syria


Russia’s primary aim in its military intervention in Syria, including airstrikes and support of ground offensives, is the salvation of the Assad regime. However, it is also having the effect — whether intended or unintended — of boosting an Islamic State which has been trying to recover from defeats and strains on its control of territory in the north and center of the country.

I spoke last week, before the latest wave of regime-Russian attacks, with Malaysia’s BFM Radio.

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