GEORGE Kerevan in his column yesterday wrote of a negotiated settlement between Russia and Ukraine (UK is in over its head in toxic conflict with a nuclear power, May 15).

There is nothing to negotiate, save the speed of a Russian withdrawal from all territory they illegally hold within the borders of the sovereign state of Ukraine.

The alternative is their forcible removal from occupied territory and in this I include Crimea. You do not pacify dangerous animals such as Putin – they must be caged.

Long-range weapons should have been supplied long ere this and by more than just the UK. Ukraine is fighting not just for itself but for international decency.

R Mill Irving

Gifford, East Lothian