'Vladimir Putin's bloody war in Ukraine is escalating rather than receding - and it could get worse'

Escalating nightmare

The 1,000th day of Vladimir Putin’s unprovoked, brutal invasion of Ukraine is a grim landmark.

And after Joe Biden’s authorisation for Kyiv to fire long-range American missiles into Russia itself, tensions are growing.

With Keir Starmer lobbying Washington for permission to allow Ukraine to also use British-supplied Storm Shadow cruise missiles relying on US navigation, this bloody conflict is escalating rather than receding.

Total victory appears beyond both sides. But the danger of the war spreading beyond the borders of Russia and Ukraine will heighten when weapons are used from Ukraine which can hit targets in Russia.

Putin could even consider attacking Nato countries, including the UK, which are sending the weapons.

Strategists in democracies siding with Volodymyr Zelensky believe Putin wouldn’t dare. But what if he’s desperate and reckless, doing what Ukraine wants to do against Russia?

Britain stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Ukraine in the interests of freedom. But nobody should dismiss possible consequences.

Energy blow

Energy bills increasing even 1% this winter would be a chilling blow for households reeling from years of rises.

The prediction that Ofgem will lift the cap to £1,736 from £1,717 for a typical home is doubly disappointing. Only a few months ago, there were hopes it would be lowered.

The days not long ago when the figure was £1,200 are beginning to feel like ancient history.

Pensioners who have lost winter fuel allowances worth up to £300 are entitled to feel particularly aggrieved.

Wheelie win

Paddy McGuinness hasn’t said exactly where on the body he’ll have his Children in Need Chopper bike tattooed if fundraising tops £10million.

But the TV presenter must be thanking his lucky stars he didn’t pedal a penny-farthing.