The first question I asked myself in considering a reply was, "What exactly did Putin do?"
Answer: Take action on a straight-forward recommendation proposed by Sec. Kerry during negotiations with Putin and Russia's Foreign Minister (the equivalent to our Secretary of State), towit: "Syria could avoid an American attack by turning over 'every single bit of his chemical weapons to the international community in the next week.'"
The only way Pres. Obama or SoS Kerry look foolish is if negotiations breakdown OR if Syria does exactly what many believe Iraq did w/their chemical weapons stockpile - move them to another country in hiding. Based on media reports it looks as though Syria is very willing to capitulate and not only turn over their entire chemical weapons stockpile but also halt production of chemical weapons altogether.
Source: USAToday article, "
Syrian FM: Syria will sign chemical ban, open storage sites"
If they follow through, I'd say Kerry's gaff will turn out to be a smart bold suggestion, Pres. Obama will come away looking stronger for not backing down completely on his threat to use military force, if necessary, as well as pragmatic on the world stage for listening to his people (Congress and U.S. citizens) and world leaders and allowing for a diplomatic solution rather than violence.
The verdict is still out, but I'd say "heads, we win" on this one assming things play out as is being reported.