Meanwhile, Putin Watch & Latest News

Just heard about and read a few articles about the recent activity of Vlad Putin of Russia. Seems he's taking charge of recent ceasefire efforts in Syria. Interesting. Here's a link to the UK Guardian's take on the situation:

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/feb/24/vladimir-putin-takes-charge-of-syria-ceasefire-effort-Russia

Putin has also made moves in Turkey. Below is an excerpt from a Washington Examiner article on the subject:

"Russian President Vladimir Putin’s plans in the Middle East are becoming clearer. In a bid to exact revenge on Turkey and in an attempt to split the NATO alliance, Russia is rapidly building up pressure on NATO’s southern flank. The new Russian satellite state of Armenia on Turkey’s northeastern border is now hosting a massive Russian troop build up with the recent signing of an air defense agreement between Russia and Kremlin. Along with the buildup of Russian air assets in Syria, Russia selling Iran billions in sophisticated weapon systems, and Russia’s support of Kurdish units along Turkey’s southern border, Mr. Putin has encircled Turkey in a classic pincer movement."

For the entire article, click on the link below:

http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2016/feb/24/l-todd-wood-putin-encircles-turkey-massive-troop-b/

Last but not least, here is a link to another article, this one written by Bloomberg about the oil industry in Putin's Russia and what's happening there. No doubt there's trouble in paradise and Vlad's looking for answers:

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-02-24/putin-s-oil-despair-drives-lucky-few-investors-toward-the-exits