Putin as Protector of Middle East Christians

Putin is taking on the traditional Russian role in protecting Eastern Orthodox “Christians”. The Tsars used to do the same thing.

I’ve heard this argument before about Russia’s historic role as protector of E. Orth. churches. I think there’s a lot to it. Of course, I’m highly skeptical about Putin’s profession of faith. Doesn’t seem to be that he’s a “disciple indeed.” But on sociological grounds, this viewpoint explains a lot about Russia’s involvement in Syria—added to the idea that they like to stick it to the USA wherever possible.

I’d be skeptical about any KGB agent’s profession of faith. In many ways, Putin is sticking to historic Russian foreign policy positions. The only difference is he is dealing with the US, not Britain, Germany, Turkey, or China (Tartars or other Central Asians).

[SBashoor]

I’ve heard this argument before about Russia’s historic role as protector of E. Orth. churches. I think there’s a lot to it. Of course, I’m highly skeptical about Putin’s profession of faith. Doesn’t seem to be that he’s a “disciple indeed.” But on sociological grounds, this viewpoint explains a lot about Russia’s involvement in Syria—added to the idea that they like to stick it to the USA wherever possible.

http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/08/europe/russia-vladimir-putin-ice-hockey-b…