With every day of the new White House administration that passes, the chances of Russia being brought in from the cold on the international stage after its full-scale invasion of Ukraine appear to be increasing.

Russia has sought a rapprochement with Syria’s new rulers, including with an injection of cash for Syria’s central bank.

The discussions between Moscow and Damascus have revolved primarily around the future of Russia’s military presence in Syria, particularly the Hmeimim Air Base and the Tartus naval facility.

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard declined to condemn Russian President Vladimir Putin in an interview Sunday, reserving her ire for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders instead.