This bully needs a slap

For a generation who grew up shivering in the shadow of the Cold War, it seems incredible we’re back here once again.

All those vowels that we thought meant a new world – glasnost and perestroika – have been replaced by a new language of war. It turns out Russia isn’t a threat consigned to Bond films – it’s actually a living, breathing enemy where innocent British civilians and police officers’ lives are regarded as fair game.

There’s no doubt Russia is intent on undermining us – or at least in creating the perception they’re undermining us. And the rest of Europe too, with their cyber attacks, random assassinations and occasional invasions of neighbouring states. Putin is an old school bully. But he has Russia’s old school problems too – a failing economy and an unhappy people. His swagger in those stack heels far outweighs his strength. Appeasement doesn’t work on bullies – just ask nice Mr Chamberlain. What works is brutality – and be it on Putin’s finance, his weaponry or his oligarchs, we must be brutal.

It’s time to see Mrs May’s mettle.