I also can’t understand how a surprise attack could have been pulled off, since it was predictable, and there have even been sporadic stories in the media about Ukrainian connections with this group for several months. Moreover, what Russia is supremely good at is knowing how the other side think.

But … If Russia could turn the tide in 2015(?) from that dire situation at that time by setting up a base in Latakia with just five warplanes, surely they will have no problem now clearing this up…

Best regards, Shyaku.