Of course the threat of military action did contribute to Putin’s epiphany. Putin does not want Assad weakened nor does he want a thousand tons of poison gas kicking around loose where they could get into the hands of Chechnyan rebels and others. Obama is using T. Roosevelt’s approach of speak softly and carry a big stick. It seems to be working. Unfortunately, the big stick is under threat. This is no time for Congress to weaken the President negotiating position, who by nature would rather negotiate than go to war. (Also Secretary of State)
Of course the threat of military action did contribute to Putin’s epiphany. Putin does not want Assad weakened nor does he want a thousand tons of poison gas kicking around loose where they could get into the hands of Chechnyan rebels and others. Obama is using T. Roosevelt’s approach of speak softly and carry a big stick. It seems to be working. Unfortunately, the big stick is under threat. This is no time for Congress to weaken the President negotiating position, who by nature would rather negotiate than go to war. (Also Secretary of State)