AFTER world wars fought in Europe and the Far East, we should be enjoying the fruits of those heroes who died in defence of freedom, never to return home from those conflicts.
Once again we hear thundering war drums in Europe with the rattle of sabres from the Russians.
Russia President Medvedev's impending threat of military retaliation against Poland, if the proposed building of the American shield goes ahead, he
says is to secure Russian safety.
This raises the question as to how dangerous is Russia to the Europe of today and could a conventional or nuclear attack occur rather than a cold war ensure?
When Russia segmented into the many countries we see today, it left its military equipment outdated and defunct, with its defence industry virtually in disarray. Its fighting forces are under-trained yet it still poses a threat of a cold war.
Vladimir Putin and Medvedev are using Russia's vast resources of energy as a threat against Europe but are apparently ignorant that they need Europe as much as Europe needs them.
Russia exports 90 per cent of its energy resources to Europe, which fuels Russia's economy.
Russia also wants membership to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) but exasperates NATO by its attempt to expand its borders.
If Russia is to achieve its objectives, it must cease its strong-arm tactics of intimidating its neighbours and Europe and debate issues rather than forceful tactics.
David Milliband, our Foreign Secretary, stated that we are not afraid of Russia's threat of a cold war.
He should be careful in his choice of words so that he is not responsible for starting a cold war or another conflict more disastrous than to contemplate.
Fred Gibbon,
Masefield Road,
Hartlepool.
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