This is a calculated distraction from Gorsuch/nuclear option, Bannon, Russian collusion investigations, Nunes recusing himself, and other domestic issues. Fifty Toms at an airfield causing damage against military assets, minimal loss of life, and the Cheeto in Chief gets to thump his chest and put some blame on Obama for this. This was definitely ran by Putin first to let him know we're just running interference for ourselves and not trying to kill Assad or any members of his military.
Meanwhile, orange dude is in Florida cutting it up with China's president.