Vladimir Putin unleashed Tu-95MS nuclear-capable strategic bombers close to Ukraine’s borders with Nato, raising an alarm in neighbouring Poland. The military alliance was forced to scramble fighter jets to defend against a possible attack amid fears Russia was dropping missiles near the border.

Air defence systems and Nato warplanes were placed on high alert last night as Russia pummelled Ukraine with bombers, drones and missile strikes. Despite peace talks ramping up as world leaders seek to bring the three-year war to an end,

As we hit the three-year mark since the invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces, Europe and NATO appear to be at their most fractured and vulnerable.