The director of the SVR interjected at the right moment: "Intelligence indicates that the Fourth Armored Division of the Republican Guard of the Syria Republic is currently the most intact and powerful government army unit, stationed near Homs. If we can quickly establish effective contact with the division commander and provide support, the ground defense line might hold out a bit longer."
President Vladimir slowly paced to the window, gazing at the quiet night in Moscow outside.
A few minutes of silence felt as long as a century.
The three high-ranking officials held their breath, waiting for his final decision.
Finally, he turned around, all traces of hesitation and deliberation gone, replaced by a resolute determination.
"Gentlemen, we have no way to retreat."
