Vladimir Putin can preen himself over Syria but the pressure on him is intense | Simon Jenkins

The Russian leader has cunningly upstaged Obama. But now he's the dominant player, his own reputation is on the line

The dark curtain draws back and over the bloodstained stage flutters a small white dove. Some twist of war has sent it aloft. Some missile roar may soon bring it crashing to Earth. But while its wings still flap we gaze at it, mesmerised by hope.

Syria is now the war game of choice among the armchair strategists of Washington and London. Cynics battle with optimists, belligerents...