As I wrote in my story today, I believe the West knew beforehand. I believe there is a deep political backstory here. Reading about the U.S. moving through Europe during the end of WWII is a story about what this or that country says is okay. All opportunities a commander saw had to go through channels. Politics dictating everything.

I see the same here. The U.S., Europe, maybe even China. Something has been agreed. If it hadn't, you'd see a typical political response from these parties--fist thumping on tables, grand-standing, etc. Instead. Crickets.