Under Putin, the Kremlin perceives relations with the U.S. as a zero-sum game in which a diminishing America automatically equals a rising Russia. From this perspective, Putin’s lifeline to Obama begins to look more like a noose. An agreement supposedly struck to remove the Syrian government’s chemical weapons will likely not do so. It will, however, facilitate Putin’s continued effort to thwart American influence and assist America’s antagonists. The deal may leave an indelible mark of defeat on the Obama presidency and inflict great damage to America’s national interest.
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