Russia and China vetoed a Western-backed U.N. resolution on Thursday -- aimed at pressuring Syrian President Bashar Assad to end his country's civil war.

British officials sponsored the plan and called the double-veto appalling.

Meanwhile, the situation in Syria continues to deteriorate. Activists say 17,000 civilians have been killed since the uprising began last March, and that the veto will only lead to more violence.

Lt. Col. Anthony Shaffer (U.S. Army Reserve) discussed that and other issues on Capital Insider.