Keep up the sanctions

SIR – To end sanctions against Russia if Vladimir Putin withdraws from Ukraine, as suggested by Liz Truss (report, March 27), would be a clear sign of Western weakness.

The invasion of a sovereign country, resulting in the murder of thousands of civilians, must be punished. The West needs to enforce sanctions until Russia is no longer a threat.

J A Crooks

Newtownards, Co Down

SIR – The war in Ukraine can be expected to continue for some time. No Ukrainian I know is willing to consider conceding one inch of the Donbas now.

What President Biden said, although considered bad form, was right. Mr Putin must be removed from power – and before any sanctions are lifted.

As soon as this happens, we should lift sanctions immediately to avoid the circumstances that led to the Second World War. However, I worry that Europe will not be willing to maintain sanctions for long enough.

If Mr Putin does succeed in his war, he will eventually move on to other countries. That would herald much longer-term economic turmoil. He cannot be allowed to remain in charge. David Clarke

Athens, Greece

SIR – In our small Welsh town, over 30 families have applied to the Home Office to sponsor a Ukrainian family.

Despite waiting for more than 14 days, no one has yet received notice that visas have been approved for any Ukrainians to find safety in our homes.

Surely we should adopt the approach of EU countries that don’t force Ukrainians to go through onerous checks, and simply ask for passports.

Is the Home Office deliberately trying to limit the number of people we welcome – or is it simply incompetent?

R A Collings

Presteigne, Radnorshire