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Some deal, any deal for Syria

The US is losing the plot in the Middle East, but has bought some time with this agreement with Russia

Finally, some good news out of Syria. At least there's reason to hope, though a political settlement is a long way off. With so much violence happening in the country, even a simple ceasefire agreed to by Russia and the United States is refreshing for peace. They tried earlier, but failed over the future of President Assad who does not appear to be going anywhere. In fact, he only seems to get stronger, thanks to Russian support, even as fighting rages in Aleppo, and human rights violations are rampant. Barrel bombs and chemical weapons are being rained on civilians. The opposition is in shreds - there are 100 disparate groups who want a piece of the action and power. They struggle to stay relevant as the real foe, Daesh, has been given more time to recoup its losses. The Syrian president is still the central figure in this conflict. He refuses to go, he will not heed, and he has a solid backer in Russian President Putin, who has emerged as the key player, the make or break player in this conflict which has displaced millions and killed over 250,000 in five years.
The US is losing the plot in the Middle East, but has bought some time with this agreement with Russia. Under the deal, the Syrian Air Force will stop bombing its people, and humanitarian supplies will be delivered to the suffering. This will give some respite to the opposition and Daesh who have been running for cover after the fierce assault by Assad's troops. 'Moderates' among the rebels have welcomed the deal, 'if it works'. Not surprising considering past failed efforts to quell the fighting. Efforts have been renewed to seek and find 'soft' rebels at Washington's behest - the chosen ones who are to make peace with Assad at his high table. But first, the ceasefire must be enforced. It might rein in a few rebels, but not Daesh who Russia and the US plan to take out a week later. This broad deal could save the US some face. Moscow, meanwhile, is wearing a broad grin.