Putin Beefs Up Russian Presence in Syria

New signs point to Russia ramping up plans to get more directly involved in the war in Syria.

Russia has been increasing its military presence in Syria and President Vladimir Putin said his country is weighing its options. Some observers say the nation could be planning to send more troops there.

However, U.S. officials are reportedly skeptical of Russia's intentions.

Some believe Putin wants to fight ISIS to convince the West to lift sanctions against Russian put in place to stop Russian efforts to take control of more territory in Ukraine.

Others say Putin could simply be interested in retaining Russian influence in Syria.

The U.N. refugee agency UNHCR says more than 366,000 refugees have managed to cross the Mediterranean to reach Europe, and at least 2,800 have either died or disappeared.