Vladimir Putin’s motives in expanding the Russian military footprint in Syria may, for now, be opaque. But this much is clear: Russia’s actions and boldness contrast sharply with the muddle that U.S. policy on the Middle East has become.

Whatever you think of the Russian president’s strategy, Mr. Putin is focused and knows his mind when it comes to what he regards as Russia’s interests–in this case, supporting embattled Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. The Syrian regime is weakening and isn’t much as an ally. But when it comes to Syria, Mr. Putin has got Iran in his corner, too. That’s more than Washington can say. Then there are these points: