So, southern Europe needs a little help. NATO responds. Five ships have been deployed to the eastern Med to assist the Greek Coast Guard in their efforts to assist refugees who are fleeing the war in Syria. Turkey has done quite a bit, taking in a million or more refugees, putting them up in camps near the border. However, over the last year, most of the refugees are, in fact, economic refugees: young men, often with families in tow, heading for opportunities in Europe where there is an economy that is functioning.
NATO has been known for being a Johnny-Come-Lately to international conflicts on Europe's fringe. Now, it appears, under current leadership, a more active role is being played out. Recently, the decision was made to send a brigade into the Baltics to address recent Russyan maneuvers along the borders.
Retired US General David Patraeus offered counsel that Mr. Putin will not be changing his strategy anytime soon, and deserves to be told that current sanctions will be added to quickly if he continues to act in aggressive ways. Given Russya's movement into the Syria war, NATO, the US and its Allies must come up with reasonable contingency plans to thwart Russyan aggression.
Mr. Putin is very aware that his country is in recession and it's getting worse. Oil prices, despite a dead-cat-bounce this week, will not advance, especially in light of Iran's return to the market. Need any roubles, Boris? Hardly. Maybe a Euro or two?
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