Next month will mark a year since Vladimir Putin began his illegal invasion of Ukraine.
In that time the Ukrainians have shown remarkable heroism and resilience.
The conflict is about to enter a critical stage as Moscow prepares for a spring offensive.
If President Volodymyr Zelensky and the Ukrainian forces are to drive the Russian military from their country they need their allies to supply more equipment and munitions.
In particular, they are calling for Germany to provide hundreds of Leopard 2 tanks. Spare parts are plentiful and they were designed to combat the Russian T20 tanks.
So far, the German government has resisted sending these armaments. This has to change.
The fate of Ukraine hangs in the balance and, with it, the long-term prospects of peace and security in Europe.
Germany must realise that Putin cannot be allowed to win and Ukraine allowed to fall.
Taxing affair
Those who demand that the rest of us pay our taxes should make sure their own affairs are in order.
This does not appear to be case with Nadhim Zahawi, the former Chancellor who is now the Conservative Party chairman.
Zahawi is refusing to answer basic questions about whether he made a seven-figure settlement with HMRC for outstanding taxes.
It has emerged he reportedly paid a penalty as part of the agreement with the tax agency.
Earlier this week Rishi Sunak said that his Cabinet colleague had “addressed in full” questions about his tax affairs.
This is clearly not the case.
If the PM wants to restore trust he would order an immediate inquiry. He also needs to explain if he knew about Zahawi’s finances before he appointed him to such a senior role.
Call it pup love
Thanks to a small army of volunteers Britain’s seal population is booming.
Their good work gets our seal of approval.
