Vladimir Putin’s surprise visit to Syria delivered an unequivocal message Meeting with Assad sent clear messages to the countries of the region.

Not a single component of the visit followed diplomatic protocol.

Each component, including the sites that Putin visited in Damascus, was symbolic and projected Russian policy and goals in the Middle East.https://t.co/SutpOXc5rq

— The Grey Man (@IntelOperator) January 16, 2020