1. Wikipedia notes: Russia enjoys a historically strong, stable, and friendly relationship with Syria, as it did with most countries within the Arab World up until the Arab Spring. Russia's only Mediterranean naval base for its Black Sea Fleet is located in the Syrian port city of Tartus.  How did Russian government agents convince Assad to leave Syria?

2. How did Vladimir Putin help Bashar Assad and his family escape Syria?

3. What is surprising about Putin's next step with Assad?

4. For how long has the Assad family ruled Syria?

5. Read the "Background" and check out the links under "Resources." When the Assad government fell and the rebels took over, Israel began bombing/destroying all of the military installations and weaponry (much of it provided to Assad by Iran) as a way to prevent terrorists from using this military equipment against Israel. They have pretty much wiped out the Syrian rebels' ability to attack Israel or other countries.
a) What is your reaction to this preemptive move by Israel to protect its citizens?
b) Ask a parent the same question.