i think there will be a strike, but the apparent divisions on the public place are part of a diplomatic game, and when the strike happens Russia's answer will pretty much have been ascertained.

Russia will want not to completely lose face and any credibility it has left as a major power in the area by doing nothing. i'm sure Putin doesn't plan anything drastic; it will be diplomatic, and perhaps moving a few ships. i'd be more worried about iran striking back by proxy, but it seems Hezbollah won't do much more than a token reply.

i think it's willing to with political support and no strong opposition from its allies, which at the moment Obama pretty much gets, with perhaps more active involvement from France.

And yeah, there seem to be no good option for Syria anymore and i too would wish both Assad and the rebels could just lose. i don't think a warning strike will accomplish much beside saving face and buying time.