After the Skripal attack, talk of war only plays into Vladimir Putin’s hands | Simon Jenkins

Theresa May’s language in the wake of events in Salisbury has been unhelpful, given our history of provoking Russia

Do we really want war with Russia? Do we want to risk one, even a tiny one? The prospect has certainly taken British minds off Brexit. It has exhilarated the press. It has given Theresa May an immense boost and helped the defence lobby in its campaign for more money. There is nothing democracy seems to enjoy so much as contemplating war, to unite it and raise its spirits. It is never unpopular – beforehand.

Related: Despite the Salisbury attack, Britain can’t cut off all links with Russia | Tony Brenton

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from The Guardian http://ift.tt/2tSieLX