Russia is attempting to test the waters

Sir, – Why on earth would a state bristling with nuclear and now, it would appear, biological weapons of war, choose the softest of soft targets to demonstrate their ruthless ability to eliminate perceived enemies and to violate the sovereignty of a nation with impunity?

Colonel Skripal and his daughter posed no threat to Russia and were living openly without protection yet were the victims of an assassination attempt, without concern that innocent victims might also be fatally involved.

But could this wild, reckless and malicious show of aggression actually reflect weakness and insecurity in the Russian State and its president?

Vladimir Putin undoubtedly has enemies within and the Russian economy is very weak.

On paper their military capability is huge but the realisation that poor maintenance, ageing ships, submarines and military hardware are not a match for western technology and professionalism may have pushed Mr Putin into his breast-beating threats.

There is the possibility that the “cyber war” which currently exists is not going their way and this will increase their feelings of insecurity.

They are also without doubt testing the resolve of the west to deal with their aggressiveness and future expansionism.

There is no excuse, however, for their despicably disgusting and vile actions on our soil.

Regrettably, it is how Russia has always reacted.

All eyes are on Russian President Vladimir Putin following his country’s suspected use of nerve gas on British soil.