The larger truth is that it's just part of a long range scheme to restore the Russian empire. Russia is clearly making their anticipated return. They were humiliated during the Reagan years. And with this piece of crap, saboteur-in-chief, Obama in charge, who has appeased the Russians in such critically important areas as missile defense and nukes, including the horrible "New Start" treaty and Obama-Putin Iran (nuke) deal, the last thing we need is another Putin butt kisser in the White House.
It’s funny when the Russophiles have to phrase their comments that the rebels are being hit, it somewhat acknowledges and concedes that ISIS is not really being fought. As far as I’m concerned, Assad has largely allowed ISIS free rein.