Russia: Syrian Missile Sale as Litmus Test

Responding to Israeli support of anti-Kremlin political movements in Ukraine and Russia, Russian President Vladimir Putin is considering selling missile systems to Syria. Putin could strike the deal as early as late January, when Syrian President Bashar al Assad visits Moscow. Regardless of whether the arms deal is made, Putin's decision will serve as a litmus test for Russian resolve as the United States leads a geopolitical foray into the former Soviet Union, with Israel playing an important part.