I’ve said previously that I believe Trump and Putin have before them the opportunity to broker a Grand Bargain for Middle East Peace. That process can only move forward with the U.S. and Russia as first, willing partners and second, as guarantors of everyone’s good behavior.

The announcement of a cease-fire and establishment of de-escalation zones in southwestern Syria, near the Golan Heights and Dara’a is a shot across the bow to every interested party in the bitter Syrian civil war.

You say you want peace? Prove it.

By getting Israel and Jordan to sign up for this it gives Trump the opportunity to be the hero and for Putin to test his resolve.

Putin doesn’t want the honor. He wants the results. He’s driven by pragmatism not vainglory….

Read the rest at Russia Insider