Russian bear

China has just signed a landmark deal to buy Russian gas worth £236 billion (your report 22 May). While the West postures over Ukraine and imposes futile sanctions, Vadimir Putin acts in the best interests of his country and his allies.

There are already close ties between Russia, China and Iran over Asian security co-operation which, of course, is a pseudonym for joint military action.

Vadimir Putin has already outsmarted the UK and USA over the destruction of Syrian chemical weapons. Prince Charles should have considered these facts before making comments about Putin and Hitler.

The West cannot afford another Cold War so political leaders had better curb their rhetoric and threats over a Ukraine, which was never part of Europe.

Tickle the Russian bear too often and it will bite back.

Clark Cross

Springfield Road

Linlithgow