Can Putin pull off the miracle?

[bemildred]

26. I thought that was well thought out and expressed.

I think a lot depends on how the Iranians do on the ground, in Iraq and in Syria. As it sits I don't think the Turks or Sauds will jump in, they are kind of tied up, but if Iran bogs down they might be tempted to try it anyway. That would be a right mess.

I think the deal Putin cut with Assad was one last offensive with Russian air cover and ground support, and then we negotiate. And he is wagering it won't get bigger, the war, he could lose that bet.

As it stands I don't think either Erdodgan or the Sauds can afford to do it. But reason will only take you so far.

And the Iranians haven't been all that sophisticated in the past, so they might well get bogged down.

Makes me want to hide.