Putin is a scary case of deja vu
A vertically challenged, high-camp European leader faces economic disaster and general chaos at home. Brutal, bullying leadership ensues as he builds his strong man image. A cowed media dare not speak the truth. A global sporting event is organised to show off his shiny state. Rearmament reaches dizzying speed – despite a mass of people living in poverty. Yet the public’s dissatisfaction is deflected by shows of strength abroad. A neighbouring country is invaded. Traitors are picked off and assassinated in the leafy squares of the enemy. And Britain stands by, mouth gaping, a little too embarrassed to cause a fuss. No, not Putin. Hitler in the 1930s. We can only hope the next act plays out differently. I’m not convinced.