Lines in What Snow?

And so, our third-rate Churchill has issued a warning to Russia that NATO member states will "draw lines in the snow" over the Ukraine. Ever in search of a catchy phrase, what Boris’ advisors failed to note was that following a mild winter there, the snow has already started to melt.

The plus point, according to CNN, is that a mild winter in Ukraine and the plains and marshes that make up its terrain could prove beneficial to the country, as Russia could face muddy and wet conditions if it launches its military offensive too soon.

The negative is that once more, our Prime Minister looks a complete fake as he tries to divert attention away from Partygate. The image of him giving a Winston-style speech on the front line and falling face first into the mud just won’t leave my imagination.

Mr Johnson stated, "As an alliance we must draw lines in the snow and be clear there are principles upon which we will not compromise.

"That includes the security of every NATO ally and the right of every European democracy to aspire to NATO membership."

But isn’t this “right”, allied to the ever expansionist EU empire, the reason for the whole situation in the first place? Western leaders have contrived to make the Russian bear feel threatened and that will invariably lead to it lashing out.

As usual, EU countries are divided over Russia. Poland and other former communist countries in Eastern and Central Europe prefer to take a tough stance on Moscow, which they view as a constant security threat.

Italy, France and Germany have long been accused by other EU members as being "soft" with Moscow; too keen on keeping President Putin sweet, hungry for Russian business and - especially in the case of Germany, which has all but phased out nuclear power - Russian gas.

The answers? Russia clearly has its eyes on the eastern Ukrainian gas fields. Its incursion into Crimea was for the very same reason. The greater dependence on Russian gas only increases the threat of a limited invasion.

As for Russian threats to turn the gas off, with remaining coal reserves, nuclear options, fracking and the potentials of tidal power, especially the Severn barrier, the UK should not be importing power from anywhere. Successive governments wanting to show their “green” credentials have put us in an awkward situation.

Not relying on imported gas would be the strongest sanction of all.

Martin Day - Party Secretary