The Russian Ambassador to the UK has accused the West of "deliberately undermining chances for a political solution in Syria" by pushing for military action. The US has said Syria must be held accountable for its "heinous" chemical weapons attack.
Israel's Prime Minister has warned that if Syria's President Assad does launch any kind of retaliatory attack then Israel will, in his words, respond forcefully.
Any Israeli attack on Syria under those circumstances will be be large scale, and Asad's allies in Lebanon and Iran will feel bound to respond. So this is one way in which a punishment action by the Western powers could lead very quickly to a regional conflict.
The Democratic presidential candidate may also have shown his cards on his choice of running mate.
The US president also shared a post on Twitter accusing Dr Anthony Fauci of misleading the public over hydroxychloroquine.
Fears over an impending second wave of coronavirus dominates Wednesday’s front pages.