Russian Navy to be More Conspicuous in Syrian Ports

Russia will raise the profile of its navy in Syrian ports, according to the Russian charge d’affaires in Damascus. Syrian President Bashar Al-Asad has been seeking to parlay the growing rift between Russia and the United States into increased military support from Moscow. However, the Russians, according to some analysts, seem to be hesitant to sell more arms to the Syrians. Last week Russian Foreign Minister Serge Lavrov said his nation would not upset the "regional balance of power." And Russians are not saying whether any arms deals were closed when President Dmitry Medvedev hosted Al-Asad at a Black Sea resort last Thursday. Syria, too, is believed to not want to cross the line that would jeopardize peace talks with Israel that are reported to be making modest success.