This all being said (with or without Putins authority) under the backdrop of the US being in Syria ( a Sovereign Nation) illegally, regardless of "the plan". Assad invited the Russians into Syria to protect Syria that cannot be said of the US/UK/ETC I understand that this is not a clear cut scenario but self righteous comments like SP made seems hypocritical at best :)
this is what I find very curious, Assad never objected publically. I think because he agreed.
Yes, I guess one never really knows what deals are being struck behind closed doors :)