Russian media are confirming reports that they are in the process of a naval buildup off the coast of Syria, sending additional frigates through the Bosphorus into the area. This is being called the largest naval presence Russia has had in the Mediterranean since 2015.
This comes as the US adds warships to the coastal area as well. Russia noted in particular that the USS Ross, armed with Tomahawk missiles, was deployed to the area recently. This comes amid repeated US threats to attack Syria.
Russia has been warning the US against attacking Syria again, while US officials continue to reiterate threats if there is a “chemical attack.” Those threats take on a whole additional seriousness amid reports Islamist rebels in northern Syria are planning to “stage” such an attack so the US will intervene again.
NATO made no mention of the US ships in the area, but issued a statement calling on Russia to “exercise restraint” with its own ships, and faulting them over the humanitarian problems inside Syria.
This is dangerous, because the only way to stop an American strike is to convince them they might be hit back. If they are not convinced, a fight could break out they never believed could happen. Bullies get hurt, and they are always shocked when it happens.
Luckily, as Justin has told us, Trump is a peace President and will never lead the US to war. In fact he’s probably already dismantling the USS Ross with his bare hands.
Trump is losing control over his office.
Are you pretending that trump cant order the Navy out of harm’s way?
He is advised against it by his Colonial Sanders.
Every presidential decision throughout history has advisors against an action. The CIC decides, and is responsible for where every ship goes, if trump cant make these decisions, he should step down, or actually, never run.
That’s good to know. Perhaps you should run for President. We need someone like you who is know-it-all first day on the job, is decisive and doesn’t listen to his advisors.
I have advisors ?
You certainly would, if you are elected as the President! You get a cushy pension, 401K, HMO coverage with top notch company, PPO dental plan, and eye coverage. You get a time off once a month and two weeks vocation with pay! You get to play golf any times as long as it’s for business purpose and all you have to do is listen to your advisor who know more than you.
Tempting, but I don’t like golf.
It is almost like this episode is scheduled. Is anything going on like oh mid-terms?
At the first sign of trouble, Putin will hightail it back to Moscow.
Solly,
When Putin figures out that the USA/Israeli interests are not going to be reasonable, he may throw a punch for effect. The Russians are not stupid chess-players – they know that you need to attack, sometimes, not just move your pawns endlessly, forward.
The navel increase by the Ru.ss is to deflect Patriot missiles lumped in Syria. Because the next plan was take out the new anti air missiles Assad received.