When it comes to the element of surprise, it would seem that Donald Trump has nothing on Vladimir Putin. Russia’s backing of so-called safe zones in Syria, to become active this evening, has shocked many. However, many others see the Astana Memorandum establishing these zones as a masterful move in the wider geo-political chess game. It should surprise no one that the jihadist militant groups present at Astana stormed out in rage during the singing of the safe zone Memorandum which they object to.