In mid-December 2017, Russia’s REN TV reported that the “Western press has been delighted by president Putin’s trip to the Middle East”.

Putin had ordered the partial withdrawal of Russian troops during an unannounced visit to Syria. Russian support has been crucial in turning the tide of Syria’s civil war in favour of government forces, led by president Bashar al-Assad.

So, how did the western press cover the story?

Top image: Russian president Vladimir Putin addressing troops in Syria. Getty