Russia sent around 250000, that's like 5 times the number Turkey is using.50k troops so thats like 1/3rd of what Russia sent for Ukraine, how much territory they want to cease back just for my curiosity? entire Syria, half of Syria 10-30% Syria?
I almost wonder if it's worth it at this point to tell Russia to go fuck itself and clear the area anyway. And if any Russian airplanes try bombing, blow them out of the sky immediately as a message. So Russia either does thing the Turkish way or loses Syria entirely.Pro tip: don't annouce intentions for an operation without swiftly following through.
Obviously, the announcement was made for political reasons but whenever this operation does take place it will be quite bloody.
1. YPG/PKK 2. Syrian Regime 3. Pro-Iranian militias 4. Russians --> All have sent reinforcements to Tal Rifaat.
Although preparations are being made I have a feeling that Lavrov's meeting will result in the Syrian Regime replacing YPG control over Tal Rifaat - and that any operation will be quite underwhelming.
There are rumours circulating that the Russians are trying to pursuade Turkey to capture Kobane, but its not currently on the agenda given US pressure.
What's Russia gonna do? Nuke Turkey?
When your opposition is weak, hit them hardest where it hurts, consolidate your gains and negotiate hardball. And the best part is that it's Russia and the entire world's attitude right now is basically "fuck Russia" so Turkey wouldn't be getting nearly the amount of negative press.
People keep talking about Russian tourism but I would like to point out that losing Russian tourism wouldn't be nearly as much of a blow if a) Erdogan stopped being retarded about interest rates and b) if AKP didn't repeatedly stick their foot in their mouths in regards to the rest of Europe.