Russians serving alongside Syrian troops
Syrian television has aired footage of Russian-speaking soldiers firing upon rebel position and using new Russian-made armored vehicles. Other reports, unconfirmed at present, claim that Russian aircraft are operating over Syria. Russia will not let its Syrian ally fall, though it may be amenable to easing Assad out of office.
ISIL claims responsibility for Yemen bombings
Two bombs exploded in a Sanna mosque, killing at least twenty. ISIL has previously targeted Shia mosques and political personnel. ISIL is intertwined with some of the Sunni tribes and movements of S Yemen.
Chinese naval vessels near Alaskan waters
Five PLAN warships have been identified in the Bering Sea – clearly a sign that China will be making its presence known outside of Wast Asia. The ships may have been sent there to coincide with President Obama’s visit ti Alaska. Meanwhile, China has announced a sizable 300,000 person cut in the military, chiefly from the land forces, not the navy or air force. Nonetheless, the Chinese military will not like it, nor will the military’s supporters in the party and state.