PUTIN PERSONALLY MADE DECISION TO GRANT ASSAD ASYLUM - Kremlin spokesman Peskov's debrief:

PUTIN PERSONALLY MADE DECISION TO GRANT ASSAD ASYLUM - Kremlin spokesman Peskov's debrief: ▪ The goal-setting of the Astana format has been lost, but it will continue to work as a mechanism for exchanging opinions. (The Astana Platform was created for negotiation purposes, after several meetings in Astana, Kazakhstan between members of the Syrian opposition forces.) ▪ What happened in Syria surprised the entire world; ▪ Russian military in Syria is taking all necessary precautions; it is premature to talk about preserving Russian bases in Khmeimim & Tartus, this is a subject for discussion with those who will lead Syria; ▪ Russia is in dialogue with Turkey & other regional countries; ▪ There has still not been contact between Putin and President-elect Trump; ▪ Today, Putin will meet with the heads of parliaments of the CSTO countries & present state awards to Heroes of Russia. Boost us here @IntelRepublic Source: Intel Republic