Russia got a tit for tat to remove their missile from Cuba. We in turn took our missiles out of Turkey. Unknown until somewhat recently JFK did some backing down. The Russian ships never did get to the blockade. They turned around, IIRC, after JFK conceded.
Russia may be doing something similar now. They may have upped the ante hoping we’ll cut our support not only for the insurgents but also remove the Patriots.
It looks like we’ve been down this road before.
I can’t deny that your thoughts are correct. There are some politics or at least perceived politics involved.
My belief stems from the fact that Russia is desperately in need of manufacturing exports that produce jobs and paying customers. It is this need that drives their current efforts. Given their negative direction jobs must be provided to persuade men to cease being alcoholics and women to cease aborting their children. The saving of Russia trumps the saving os Assad
Arms are the only real export manufacturing capability they have. Arms sales must be made. Petty rulers must be sold.