hello, i'm christian fraser. you're watching context on bbc news. vladimir putin says his troops will support the territorial claims of the two proxy states in eastern ukraine. the nato secretary general describes it as europe's most dangerous moment in a generation. there are tonight, pictures of russian troops nearing the border, some of them crossing just hours after the russian duma voted to recognise the independence of donetsk and luhansk. the us and europe were quick to respond with new sanctions — targetting russian banks and those close to president putin, amid universal condemnation in the west of the russian aggression. new so—called countries on territories that belong to his neighbours?

we will ask tonight where republicans stand on ukraine ahead of the annual cpac conference in orlando, where donald trump will be the major draw, ahead of the crucial midterm elections. tonight with the context, victoria coates, former senior adviser to the us secretary of energy in the trump administration, now at the american foreign policy council, and back with us tom peck, political sketch writer for the independent. welcome to the programme. we start in ukraine. the nato secretary general, jens stoltenberg, says there's evidence russian troops are now moving into separatist—held areas of eastern ukraine and every indication they are still planning for a full—scale invasion of ukraine. it is, he says, the most dangerous moment here in europe for a generation. earlier today, the russian parliament rubber stamped president putin's decision

to recognise the independence of the separatist regions in eastern ukraine — and shortly after that vote, just a few hours ago, these pictures were filmed of a russian armoured column moving towards luhansk and donetsk. mr putin's recognition of those separately held areas — here they are on the map — was universally condemned today in western capitals. we've had the first wave of sanctions from the eu, germany, france and the uk. not the entire package promised — we'll talk more about that in the programme — but first let's hear from president biden, who has been speaking in the last few hours as he announced the first wave of us sanctions. this is the beginning of a russian invasion of ukraine, as he indicated and asked permission from his duma. i'm going to begin to impose sanctions in response, far beyond the steps we and our allies and partners implemented in 2014, and if russia goes further with this invasion, we stand prepared to go further, as with sanctions. who in the lord's name does putin

think gives him the right to declare new so—called countries on territories that belong to his neighbours? this is a flagrant violation of international law and it demands a firm response from the international community. president biden announced moves to block trade involving two large russian banks and cut parts of the russian economy off from international financial systems. he also said he would move additional us forces to the baltic states, which are nato members. and in the last hour the pentagon has provided more details — saying that a number of f—35jets and apache helicopters will be moved to strategic positions along nato�*s eastern flank. the announcement of sanctions is in lock step with america's allies. the european union announced its putting sanctions on a number of russian individuals, banks and institutions. here's the president of the european commission, ursula von der leyen. we will make it as difficult as

possible for the kremlin to pursue its aggressive actions. if russia continues to escalate this crisis that it has created, we are ready to take further action in response. the standout decision today came in berlin. the german chancellor for weeks has refused to discuss by name the nord stream 2 gas pipeline, but today, he took the decision to suspend the project and its certification. it has been ready to pump gas to europe since september, but it will not go ahead. in london, the british government announced sanction on five russian banks, three russian oligarchs and those members of the duma who today voted to back putin's actions. after some stormy session in the house of commons of late, total unanimity today. although there are some calling for borisjohnson to go the whole hog now on sanctions, in order to send the strongest message to president putin. this is the first tranche, the first

barrage — this is the first tranche, the first barrage of— this is the first tranche, the first barrage of what _ this is the first tranche, the first barrage of what we _ this is the first tranche, the first barrage of what we are - this is the first tranche, the first barrage of what we are preparedj this is the first tranche, the first. barrage of what we are prepared to do, barrage of what we are prepared to do. and _ barrage of what we are prepared to do. and we — barrage of what we are prepared to do. and we hold_ barrage of what we are prepared to do, and we hold further— barrage of what we are prepared to do, and we hold further sanctions. barrage of what we are prepared tol do, and we hold further sanctions at readiness— do, and we hold further sanctions at readiness to — do, and we hold further sanctions at readiness to be _ do, and we hold further sanctions at readiness to be deployed _ do, and we hold further sanctions at readiness to be deployed alongside i readiness to be deployed alongside the united — readiness to be deployed alongside the united states— readiness to be deployed alongside the united states and _ readiness to be deployed alongsidej the united states and the european union if— the united states and the european union if the — the united states and the european union if the situation _ the united states and the european union if the situation escalates - union if the situation escalates still further. _ we'll get reaction from both sides of the atlantic, but first let's start with out chief international correspondent, lyse doucet, who's in kyiv. i want to talk, if we can, about vladimir putin's press conference. some new demands from the russian president. there should be a end... he called for crimea to be recognised for part of russia, and it can be solved if kyiv does what it can be solved if kyiv does what it has to do and renounce it wants tojoin nato. how has not gone down in kyiv? to join nato. how has not gone down in k iv? ~ ., to join nato. how has not gone down in k iv? ~ . ., to join nato. how has not gone down in k iv? ~' . ., to join nato. how has not gone down ink iv? ~' . ., �*, in kyiv? like a lead balloon. it's siml in kyiv? like a lead balloon. it's simply not _ in kyiv? like a lead balloon. it's simply not going _ in kyiv? like a lead balloon. it's simply not going to _ in kyiv? like a lead balloon. it's simply not going to happen. - in kyiv? like a lead balloon. it's. simply not going to happen. russia knows that. at least it should by

now. the ukrainians will certainly not accept that, and in fact, it's always hard to assess public opinion, but we know ever since russia first invaded ukraine in 2014, the percentage of ukrainians who want to move closer to the west, who want to move closer to the west, who want to become more of a european eyes culture has grown. this latest crisis has only affirmed and strengthened their view that they do need nato's back, they do need to have membership of nato because if they were a member, they could ask for nato forces to get inside ukraine, with the help of the defensive questions —— weapons. but if not the same thing if you're a nato member. that's the right to the bowl for president putin, and why last night he not only essentially say that ukraine is a fake country,

it is a puppet regime, but it's a regime he said that threatens russia. it would be even worse, and his mind, if it was a country allied with nato. this doesn't get us any further, and itjust underlinesjust how difficult it is to resolve this escalating crisis, and it raises the questions, what sanctions will be big enough to stop president putin from what he wants to achieve? president zelensky is worried about panic on the streets because that is what vladimir putin presumably would like to see. he's called for, again. but it does seem inevitable that war is coming, and poland is preparing for refugees who they expect will arrived. are you seeing people packing up and making for the main routes out? ~ packing up and making for the main routes out?— routes out? well, there's already been reports _

routes out? well, there's already been reports of _ routes out? well, there's already been reports of people _ routes out? well, there's already been reports of people packing i been reports of people packing suitcases or thinking what they will take if it does come to that. there's been reports of people perhaps moving to family homes outside of the big cities. but there are ukrainians who are still hoping against hope, and their people in western capitals who are hoping against hope. but this will not lead to an all—out military confrontation. bear in mind that we've had strong statements from president biden for many weeks now. we thought there was going to be a week military incursion on february 16. people were saying maybe it will take place on saturday. i think given what we've seen in the last 24 hours, is playing out in ways we didn't expect. every day, president putin keeps people guessing. there are two questions. what will president putin do next and what will the west do next in response?

barbara, here's whatjoe biden's press secretary said last month. if any forces move to ukraine, that is any forces move to ukraine, that is a renewed invasion which will be met with a swift, severe, united response from the us. is that what joe biden has set out tonight? that joe biden has set out tonight? that is what they — joe biden has set out tonight? that is what they are now calling it, and they have — is what they are now calling it, and they have shifted their missions over— they have shifted their missions over the — they have shifted their missions over the further —— and shifted their— over the further —— and shifted their message. when the announcement was nrade. _ their message. when the announcement was made, us officials were saying they have — was made, us officials were saying they have sanctioned people trading with those two republics, but this is not _ with those two republics, but this is not the — with those two republics, but this is not the swift and severe response. they said the decision was a ftagrant— response. they said the decision was a flagrant violation of russia's international commitments. today, we are getting _ international commitments. today, we are getting much stronger language. the americans are saying this is the beginning _ the americans are saying this is the beginning ofan the americans are saying this is the beginning of an invasion. some

officials — beginning of an invasion. some officials are saying you can say this is— officials are saying you can say this is the _ officials are saying you can say this is the beginning of the response. but this is all sort of semantics— response. but this is all sort of semantics or information warfare in a way _ semantics or information warfare in a way i_ semantics or information warfare in a way. i think what we have to look at what _ a way. i think what we have to look at what has — a way. i think what we have to look at what has actually been announced. the sanctions are harsh, on two major— the sanctions are harsh, on two major financial institutions, blocking _ major financial institutions, blocking them. they can't deal with us institutions. also, putting sanctions _ us institutions. also, putting sanctions on sovereign debt, which nreans— sanctions on sovereign debt, which means the — sanctions on sovereign debt, which means the russian government cannot raise money— means the russian government cannot raise money in the west, which is no smatt— raise money in the west, which is no small thing — raise money in the west, which is no smallthing. some raise money in the west, which is no small thing. some of the elites and their families will also be sanctioned. the way they presented, as is the _ sanctioned. the way they presented, as is the case in europe, this will be a _ as is the case in europe, this will be a rote — as is the case in europe, this will be a role and process. this is the first— be a role and process. this is the first tranche of sanctions. there are measures we have been told about by security— are measures we have been told about by security officials, that they are contemplating, which mr biden did not amounts. he's saying that if mr

putin— not amounts. he's saying that if mr putin invades ukraine further, more sanctions _ putin invades ukraine further, more sanctions will be forthcoming. he's trying _ sanctions will be forthcoming. he's trying to— sanctions will be forthcoming. he's trying to send a message today that is severe, _ trying to send a message today that is severe, but also to hold back enough — is severe, but also to hold back enough to — is severe, but also to hold back enough to be a threat. although, given— enough to be a threat. although, given what we've heard from mr putin. _ given what we've heard from mr putin. it — given what we've heard from mr putin, it seems as though he has calculated — putin, it seems as though he has calculated in the effects of sanctions and he is resolved to act on his— sanctions and he is resolved to act on his worldview and beliefs. victoria, _ on his worldview and beliefs. victoria, would you have wanted to see the full package of sanctions deployed today? i see the full package of sanctions deployed today?— deployed today? i think i would have actually liked — deployed today? i think i would have actually liked to _ deployed today? i think i would have actually liked to see _ deployed today? i think i would have actually liked to see some _ deployed today? i think i would have actually liked to see some of - deployed today? i think i would have actually liked to see some of these l actually liked to see some of these sanctions _ actually liked to see some of these sanctions months _ actually liked to see some of these sanctions months ago _ actually liked to see some of these sanctions months ago when - actually liked to see some of these sanctions months ago when putin i sanctions months ago when putin started _ sanctions months ago when putin started building _ sanctions months ago when putin started building up _ sanctions months ago when putin started building up troops - sanctions months ago when putin started building up troops around the ukrainian— started building up troops around the ukrainian border, _ started building up troops around the ukrainian border, and - started building up troops around the ukrainian border, and when l started building up troops around i the ukrainian border, and when we saw him _ the ukrainian border, and when we saw him start— the ukrainian border, and when we saw him start to tighten _ the ukrainian border, and when we saw him start to tighten the - the ukrainian border, and when we saw him start to tighten the caps. i saw him start to tighten the caps. it's saw him start to tighten the caps. it's a _ saw him start to tighten the caps. it's a very— saw him start to tighten the caps. it's a very chilling _ saw him start to tighten the caps. it's a very chilling signal. -

saw him start to tighten the caps. it's a very chilling signal. and - it's a very chilling signal. and this was— it's a very chilling signal. and this was in— it's a very chilling signal. and this was in august. _ it's a very chilling signal. and this was in august. the - it's a very chilling signal. and i this was in august. the reserves it's a very chilling signal. and - this was in august. the reserves of europe _ this was in august. the reserves of europe had — this was in august. the reserves of europe had were _ this was in august. the reserves of europe had were much _ this was in august. the reserves of europe had were much lower- this was in august. the reserves of europe had were much lower thanl this was in august. the reserves of- europe had were much lower than they should _ europe had were much lower than they should have _ europe had were much lower than they should have been. _ europe had were much lower than they should have been. so, _ europe had were much lower than they should have been. so, putin— europe had were much lower than they should have been. so, putin sent- should have been. so, putin sent very clear— should have been. so, putin sent very clear messages _ should have been. so, putin sent very clear messages 8—9 - should have been. so, putin sent very clear messages 8—9 monthsj should have been. so, putin sent- very clear messages 8—9 months ago about— very clear messages 8—9 months ago about his _ very clear messages 8—9 months ago about his intentions, _ very clear messages 8—9 months ago about his intentions, and _ very clear messages 8—9 months ago about his intentions, and i— very clear messages 8—9 months ago about his intentions, and i think- very clear messages 8—9 months ago about his intentions, and i think at. about his intentions, and i think at that point, — about his intentions, and i think at that point, that's _ about his intentions, and i think at that point, that's when _ about his intentions, and i think at that point, that's when you - that point, that's when you wanted to start _ that point, that's when you wanted to start enacting _ that point, that's when you wanted to start enacting some _ that point, that's when you wanted to start enacting some of- that point, that's when you wanted to start enacting some of this- to start enacting some of this deterrent~ _ to start enacting some of this deterrent. not _ to start enacting some of this deterrent. not wait _ to start enacting some of this deterrent. not wait for - to start enacting some of this deterrent. not wait for him . to start enacting some of this| deterrent. not wait for him to actually— deterrent. not wait for him to actually invade _ deterrent. not wait for him to actually invade a _ actually invade a neighbouring country — actually invade a neighbouring country leit— actually invade a neighbouring count . , , ., country. let me 'ust put that ruestion country. let me 'ust put that question to _ country. let me just put that question to you, _ country. let me just put that question to you, lyse - country. let me just put thatl question to you, lyse doucet, country. let me just put that - question to you, lyse doucet, before i go to tom. as president zelensky happy with what he's seen across europe and in the united states? is that what he was promised in the run—up to this conflict? that what he was promised in the run-up to this conflict?— run-up to this conflict? well, he also has been _ run-up to this conflict? well, he also has been saying _ run-up to this conflict? well, he also has been saying for- run-up to this conflict? well, he also has been saying for a - run-up to this conflict? well, he also has been saying for a very l run-up to this conflict? well, he i also has been saying for a very long time, what are you waiting for? there's already russian aggression. we've had it to eight years because we didn't do anything in 2014, or didn't do or not. so he wanted them

a long time ago —— it didn't do enough. ukrainian politicians have said today they have to look at the details of this. they want something which is going to make president putin think twice, but they know perhaps better than anyone that that will take an awful lot for him, especially after what we've heard from president putin in the last 24 hours, it may take an awful lot more. they are certainly grateful for the support, but they're up against president putin and his ambitions to confirm that russia and ukraine are one state and one people. ukraine are one state and one --eole. , , ukraine are one state and one neale, i, ukraine are one state and one --eole. , ., . , people. lyse, good to have you they are caettin people. lyse, good to have you they are getting us _ people. lyse, good to have you they are getting us the _ people. lyse, good to have you they are getting us the latest _ people. lyse, good to have you they are getting us the latest from - people. lyse, good to have you they are getting us the latest from kyiv. l are getting us the latest from kyiv. barbara, thank you as well. there have already been questions about how effective these sanctions will be. the kremlin has been busy building its defences.

0nly around 16% of that foreign—exchange is now actually held in dollars, down from 40% five years ago. in other changes, they are seeking new trade opportunities away from western markets. they've created their own system of international payment, and they put the debt. it means the russian economy is guarding slower, but they are less dependent on western finances than they were some years ago. the question is, what if the sanctions don't work?— ago. the question is, what if the sanctions don't work? there are two es of sanctions don't work? there are two types of sanctions. _ sanctions don't work? there are two types of sanctions. one _ sanctions don't work? there are two types of sanctions. one of _ sanctions don't work? there are two types of sanctions. one of the - types of sanctions. one of the sanctions you take to cripple the economy of the country you're targeting. russia is not successful as it was... but there are the second type of sanctions, that you can apply to specific individuals.

i:e., the member of putin's kleptocratic court to store their money largely in the uk, and it is through that process of him allowing them to keep their wealth. in the uk has never really had a problem with all that money being kept here and laundered here. so putin can easily take that money away from the people whose loyalty lies in letting them keep it, but the uk has a real power to put pressure on putin now, and some of the sanctions that boris johnson announced today will do that, but i don't think anybody thinks they're enough. i can't see really any reason why you wouldn't go faster quicker. the invasion probably has some pretty terrible steps ago, but britain wants to take the easy steps. if they are trying to make food and think again, today

isn't enough. to make food and think again, today isn't enough-— isn't enough. you're right. victoria. _ isn't enough. you're right. victoria, you're _ isn't enough. you're right. | victoria, you're well-placed isn't enough. you're right. - victoria, you're well-placed to talk victoria, you're well—placed to talk about the energy issues because you are an adviser to the energy secretary. you've also been on the national security council. the question that i want to know, or i'd like to get answered is, if they apply sanctions like they've applied in ironic in venezuela, that has implementations —— iran. that's going to have huge implications for russia. , , ., , russia. yes, if there is any good news to come — russia. yes, if there is any good news to come out _ russia. yes, if there is any good news to come out of— russia. yes, if there is any good news to come out of this - russia. yes, if there is any good i news to come out of this situation, the extreme energy— news to come out of this situation, the extreme energy capability- news to come out of this situation, the extreme energy capability of. the extreme energy capability of europe has— the extreme energy capability of europe has now been _ the extreme energy capability of- europe has now been clearly exposed. as has _ europe has now been clearly exposed. as has putin's— europe has now been clearly exposed. as has putin's willingness _ europe has now been clearly exposed. as has putin's willingness to _ europe has now been clearly exposed. as has putin's willingness to use - as has putin's willingness to use energy— as has putin's willingness to use energy as — as has putin's willingness to use energy as a _ as has putin's willingness to use energy as a weapon. _

as has putin's willingness to use energy as a weapon. so - as has putin's willingness to use energy as a weapon. so that - as has putin's willingness to use energy as a weapon. so that is l energy as a weapon. so that is something _ energy as a weapon. so that is something that _ energy as a weapon. so that is something that as _ energy as a weapon. so that is something that as the - energy as a weapon. so that is something that as the united i energy as a weapon. so that is - something that as the united states, pa rticuta rty _ something that as the united states, particularly a — something that as the united states, particularly a year _ something that as the united states, particularly a year ago, _ something that as the united states, particularly a year ago, we _ particularly a year ago, we were uniquely— particularly a year ago, we were uniquely placed _ particularly a year ago, we were uniquely placed to _ particularly a year ago, we were uniquely placed to assist. - particularly a year ago, we were uniquely placed to assist. i - particularly a year ago, we were. uniquely placed to assist. i would like to— uniquely placed to assist. i would like to see — uniquely placed to assist. i would like to see the _ uniquely placed to assist. i would like to see the united _ uniquely placed to assist. i would like to see the united states - like to see the united states significantly— like to see the united states significantly ramp _ like to see the united states significantly ramp up - like to see the united states - significantly ramp up particularly our natural— significantly ramp up particularly our natural gas _ significantly ramp up particularly our natural gas production, - significantly ramp up particularly our natural gas production, get. significantly ramp up particularly i our natural gas production, get that into the _ our natural gas production, get that into the international— our natural gas production, get that into the international system - our natural gas production, get that into the international system to - into the international system to either— into the international system to either provide _ into the international system to either provide a _ into the international system to either provide a direct- into the international system to i either provide a direct alternative to europe — either provide a direct alternative to europe or— either provide a direct alternative to europe or to _ either provide a direct alternative to europe or to free _ either provide a direct alternative to europe or to free up— either provide a direct alternative to europe or to free up other- to europe or to free up other supplies— to europe or to free up other supplies to _ to europe or to free up other supplies to come _ to europe or to free up other supplies to come up - supplies to come up through alexandria, _ supplies to come up through alexandria, egypt. - supplies to come up through alexandria, egypt. could- supplies to come up through alexandria, egypt. could be| supplies to come up through - alexandria, egypt. could be another source _ alexandria, egypt. could be another source but— alexandria, egypt. could be another source but it's _ alexandria, egypt. could be another source. but it's really— alexandria, egypt. could be another source. but it's really shocking - alexandria, egypt. could be another source. but it's really shocking to i source. but it's really shocking to read _ source. but it's really shocking to read that — source. but it's really shocking to read that the _ source. but it's really shocking to read that the italians _ source. but it's really shocking to read that the italians are - source. but it's really shocking to read that the italians are not - read that the italians are not enjoying _ read that the italians are not enjoying the _ read that the italians are not enjoying the strong - read that the italians are not - enjoying the strong condemnation because _ enjoying the strong condemnation because they _ enjoying the strong condemnation because they are _ enjoying the strong condemnation because they are beholden - enjoying the strong condemnation because they are beholden to - enjoying the strong condemnation . because they are beholden to russia. just to— because they are beholden to russia. just to go— because they are beholden to russia. just to go back, — because they are beholden to russia. just to go back, last _ because they are beholden to russia. just to go back, last year, _ because they are beholden to russia. just to go back, last year, you - because they are beholden to russia. just to go back, last year, you are - just to go back, last year, you are looking at replacing the russian gas that europe was taking. do you believe that if fracking, gas expression was upscaled, you could feel the void —— fill the void that there would be in the coming months in europe, or is it too late? i’m

in europe, or is it too late? i'm afraid at this _ in europe, or is it too late? i'm afraid at this point, it's too late for this— afraid at this point, it's too late for this particular— afraid at this point, it's too late for this particular crisis, - afraid at this point, it's too late for this particular crisis, but. afraid at this point, it's too late l for this particular crisis, but that doesn't — for this particular crisis, but that doesn't mean _ for this particular crisis, but that doesn't mean don't _ for this particular crisis, but that doesn't mean don't do _ for this particular crisis, but that doesn't mean don't do it. - for this particular crisis, but that doesn't mean don't do it. i'm . for this particular crisis, but that doesn't mean don't do it. i'm inl doesn't mean don't do it. i'm in philadelphia, _ doesn't mean don't do it. i'm in philadelphia, sitting _ doesn't mean don't do it. i'm in philadelphia, sitting on - doesn't mean don't do it. i'm in philadelphia, sitting on one - doesn't mean don't do it. i'm in philadelphia, sitting on one of. doesn't mean don't do it. i'm in. philadelphia, sitting on one of the largest— philadelphia, sitting on one of the largest natural— philadelphia, sitting on one of the largest natural gas— philadelphia, sitting on one of the largest natural gas reserves- philadelphia, sitting on one of the largest natural gas reserves in- philadelphia, sitting on one of thej largest natural gas reserves in the world _ largest natural gas reserves in the world that— largest natural gas reserves in the world that is— largest natural gas reserves in the world. that is something - largest natural gas reserves in the world. that is something that - largest natural gas reserves in the world. that is something that a i world. that is something that a concentrated _ world. that is something that a concentrated programme - world. that is something that a - concentrated programme supported by the government— concentrated programme supported by the government led _ concentrated programme supported by the government led by— concentrated programme supported by the government led by our private - the government led by our private industry. — the government led by our private industry those _ the government led by our private industry, those resources - the government led by our private industry, those resources can- the government led by our private industry, those resources can be i industry, those resources can be developed — industry, those resources can be developed and _ industry, those resources can be developed and offered _ industry, those resources can be developed and offered to - industry, those resources can be developed and offered to our- developed and offered to our partners _ developed and offered to our partners and _ developed and offered to our partners and allies, - developed and offered to our partners and allies, and - developed and offered to our partners and allies, and thisl developed and offered to our. partners and allies, and this has been _ partners and allies, and this has been a _ partners and allies, and this has been a huge _ partners and allies, and this has been a huge strategic _ partners and allies, and this hasj been a huge strategic advantage partners and allies, and this has - been a huge strategic advantage for the united — been a huge strategic advantage for the united states, _ been a huge strategic advantage for the united states, but— been a huge strategic advantage for the united states, but it's - been a huge strategic advantage for the united states, but it's going - been a huge strategic advantage for the united states, but it's going toi the united states, but it's going to take time, — the united states, but it's going to take time, and— the united states, but it's going to take time, and had _ the united states, but it's going to take time, and had we _ the united states, but it's going to take time, and had we started - the united states, but it's going to take time, and had we started a i the united states, but it's going to . take time, and had we started a year a-o, take time, and had we started a year ago. we _ take time, and had we started a year ago. we would — take time, and had we started a year ago. we would be _ take time, and had we started a year ago, we would be in— take time, and had we started a year ago, we would be in a _ take time, and had we started a year ago, we would be in a better- take time, and had we started a year ago, we would be in a better place. i ago, we would be in a better place. i ago, we would be in a better place. i want _ ago, we would be in a better place. i want to— ago, we would be in a better place. i want to get— ago, we would be in a better place. i want to get back _ ago, we would be in a better place. i want to get back to _ ago, we would be in a better place. i want to get back to that _ ago, we would be in a better place. i want to get back to that point - i want to get back to that point about if we wanted to do this now, we could. we had a look at the big super yachts that are floating around europe at the moment. you can see he's president of the russian oil company.

viktor vekselberg'a yacht was also in spain — in palma. viktor vekselberg's yacht was also in spain — in palma. he is the owner and president of the russian conglomerate the renova group, three. vladimir potantin's yacht is in italy moored in genoa. he is the second richest man in russia — president the world's largest producer of high—grade nickel. the question, why don't we compound those yachts tonight? irate the question, why don't we compound those yachts tonight?— those yachts tonight? we don't want to. there those yachts tonight? we don't want to- there was _ those yachts tonight? we don't want to. there was some _ those yachts tonight? we don't want to. there was some talk _ those yachts tonight? we don't want to. there was some talk before - those yachts tonight? we don't want | to. there was some talk before about how they said no to nord stream 2, and the uk isjust 3%... are equivalents, ie to say no to russian assets that are stored here, we just don't want to. i don't think lots of people are saying it's because of the russian oligarchs. i don't think it's as simple as that. i think we have an enormous financial sector,

we have always made things favourable and there's always been tax incentives to live in this country, which france doesn't have, and germany had doesn't have, and they never would. i don't think we have the courage to take these steps. we've talked before about russian assets. with regard to a super—rich person —— super rich people, they arejoined super—rich person —— super rich people, they are joined at the hip with the uk. people, they are “oined at the hip with the uk.— with the uk. there are 35 oligarchs on the list and _ with the uk. there are 35 oligarchs on the list and 13 _ with the uk. there are 35 oligarchs on the list and 13 of— with the uk. there are 35 oligarchs on the list and 13 of them - with the uk. there are 35 oligarchs on the list and 13 of them are - on the list and 13 of them are under sanctions in the uk, so there is an awful long way to go. this is context on the bbc. still to come — we'll discuss the republican party's warmer stance towards russia in recent years, and what that means in light of this week's developments. let's look at some of the other stories making headlines today. more than 80 flood warnings remain in place across england and wales after another

storm, storm franklin, hit the uk yesterday. people were rescued after the river severn burst its banks and homes had to be evacuated. a severe flood warning is in place in shropshire and a major incident has been declared in worcestershire. the queen has cancelled her planned virtual engagements for today due to mild coronavirus symptoms. buckingham palace said she would continue with light duties after testing positive for covid on sunday. she's currently isolating at windsor castle after testing positive on sunday. the charges against four men accused over the shooting of a black equal rights campaigner, sasha johnson, have been dropped. the mother of two remains in hospital after she was shot in the head in south london last may. a judge at the old bailey recorded formal not guilty verdicts after the prosecution reviewed the case and said it would not be offering any evidence.

so, where does the republican party stand on the issue of ukraine and vladir putin? we might well find out this week — the party is heading to 0ralando the party is heading to orlando for the annual cpac event. no prizes for guessing who is the keynote speaker on saturday? it is the former president, who still has an iron grip on the party, although the problems are piling up. we'll discuss in a moment. traditionally, the republicans have been pretty tough on russia, indeed many of them still are. think of ronald reagan. lindsay graham wants the toughest sanctions applied now. house minority leader kevin mccarthy has already called joe biden's ukraine policy "too wea k". but the base, reflects the softer approach that was often but the base reflects the softer approach that was often displayed by donald trump. and you now have an array of conservative talking heads, like tucker carlson on fox news, that have asked we would share care about ukraine. he repeats many of president putin's talking points when it comes to europe and nato.

where is victoria, the base of the party? i where is victoria, the base of the -a ? where is victoria, the base of the .a ? , , . ~' where is victoria, the base of the .a ? ,, party? i might push back a little bit of your— party? i might push back a little bit of your characterisation, - bit of your characterisation, christian, a president trump being friendly towards russia. what he understood was the united states faces a number of quite dire international challenges, and what has become clear to all of us is the very direct challenge from the people's republic of china. as much as possible, i think there are a number of american foreign policy establishment, pundits and opinion makers like tucker, who would say we need to focus on china. something like ukraine is a distraction. i would take a little bit of a different view. i think ukraine, because of its energy resources, because of its energy resources, because of its important therapy and

food security, crosstalk i understand what you're saying about these sanctions, but i was in helsinki. i'lljust leave it at that. can we talk about the big showdown in orlando? we're talking about donald trump and... i want to talk the big showdown in orlando this week between the old guard and the young pretender, florida governor ron de santis. this was the straw poll at last year's cpac. 55% of respondents said they would vote for donald trump in a hypothetical 2024 primary — while ron desantis was the only republican to reach double digits, with 21% support. but the evidence suggests that gap is narrowing. we will see this week. but the attacks are already happening. they clearly see him as a threat and this is a big week for him. ~ , ., �* ,, ., threat and this is a big week for him. , ., ,

him. we just don't know what happens him. we 'ust don't know what happens next in him. we just don't know what happens next in the trunk _ him. we just don't know what happens next in the trunk show, _ him. we just don't know what happens next in the trunk show, and _ him. we just don't know what happens next in the trunk show, and it - next in the trunk show, and it pretty much is the trump show. the thing _ pretty much is the trump show. the thing is _ pretty much is the trump show. the thing is the — pretty much is the trump show. the thing is the republican... the showdown between the two halves of the republican party. trump is not necessarily... putin sows discord via social— necessarily... putin sows discord via social media, from which trump benefits _ via social media, from which trump benefits. what he wants to do with power _ benefits. what he wants to do with power is _ benefits. what he wants to do with power is exploit his part entity. he doesn't _ power is exploit his part entity. he doesn't really worry about whether or not _ doesn't really worry about whether or not being friendly towards putin makes _ or not being friendly towards putin makes life — or not being friendly towards putin makes life difficult. but it does... ron desantis is this figure who hopefully is the chance that the republican party will go back to its pre-trump— republican party will go back to its pre—trump ways. it's far too early to see _

pre—trump ways. it's far too early to see it— pre—trump ways. it's far too early to see. it will be quite soon when trump _ to see. it will be quite soon when trump is — to see. it will be quite soon when trump is banned from all social media — trump is banned from all social media channels of.— trump is banned from all social media channels of. we'll see. plenty more coming — media channels of. we'll see. plenty more coming up _ media channels of. we'll see. plenty more coming up on _ media channels of. we'll see. plenty more coming up on ukraine. - hello there. it was an improving sort of day today. we did see the cloud and rain clear from the south and it brightened up with plenty of sunshine, just a few scattered showers across northern and western areas. now, it's going to remain unsettled over the next few days, where we'll have quite a lot of windy weather around. outbreaks of rain, too, but not as much as what we've had recently with those named storms. those named storms did cause issues with both wind and rain, and in fact, we continue with dozens of flood warnings across the uk. but i think this is a slow improving situation over the next few days, as there won't be quite as much rainfall around. so, in this brief ridge of high pressure to end the day today, a lot of fine weather for much of england and wales. the showers should die off this evening and overnight. it'll turn dry with lighter winds, clearskies. it'll turn quite chilly, but it turns windier and wetter across scotland and,

late in the night, northern ireland. as another weather front pushes in here. temperature—wise, close to freezing in one or two spots across the farce southeast. a cold front pushing into the northwest of the uk. closer to an area of low pressure, so wednesday doesn't look too bad. lots of dry weather around, sunshine and one or two showers. this weather front brings in very wet weather, some snow developing across central and northern scotland over the hills, and it will be windy with gales. a blustery day further south, but not as windy as further north. temperature—wise, to the south, fairly mild at maybe 11 degrees. this cold front will journey southwards. behind it, the air turns colder and stays very

windy, and there will be wintry showers. it will be quite wet to start the day. that weather front eventually clears away, and skies brighten up. there will be one of sunshine a blustery showers, but the showers will have wintry elements. significant falls of snow over the scottish hills, and here it will be windy, quite icy as well. gale force winds, but windy further south and colder for all. winds, but windy further south and colderfor all. slow winds, but windy further south and colder for all. slow improvements as we head into friday. settles down with increasing amounts of sunshine. same as we head on into the weekend, but staying windy and wet for the far northwest of scotland.

hello, i'm christian fraser. you're watching context on bbc news.

he's essentially lost all the leverage that he had in ukraine. before he recognised these territories, minsk was the agreement that gave russia if ukraine could give autonomy to those regions, then russia would essentially have a veto over ukraine's foreign policy. i would argue that putin and russia now is worse off than before the recognition of these territories. thinking that this is just a step towards a more significant escalation. towards a more significant escalation-— towards a more significant escalation. boris johnson has re tared escalation. boris johnson has prepared the _ escalation. boris johnson has prepared the public— escalation. boris johnson has prepared the public for - escalation. boris johnson has prepared the public for what l escalation. boris johnson has l prepared the public for what is

likely to come. 450 miles of trenches, trench warfare. the defence secretary in ukraine said just yesterday they have more anti—tank missiles than the russians have tanks. it's not going to be straightforward? know, but i think there's _ going to be straightforward? know, but i think there's a _ going to be straightforward? know, but i think there's a very _ but i think there's a very significant mismatch and russia's capabilities. i've seen some military analysts anticipate that this could be a fairly quick but bloody invasion where russia could very quickly be at kyiv and looking to overtake a large part of ukraine, but in conflict, much is impossible to know exactly how this will go, so we should understand this really is one of the riskiest things that president putin has done. donald

trumt's president putin has done. donald trump's former — president putin has done. donald trump's former national - president putin has done. donald trump's former national security | trump's former national security adviser said the united states must prepare to recognise the printing government. at least moving onto western border. do you think there are provisions being made? would that be a sensible move?- are provisions being made? would that be a sensible move? yeah, and i worked with — that be a sensible move? yeah, and i worked with robert _ that be a sensible move? yeah, and i worked with robert and _ that be a sensible move? yeah, and i worked with robert and knew - that be a sensible move? yeah, and i worked with robert and knew him - that be a sensible move? yeah, and i worked with robert and knew him forj worked with robert and knew him for many— worked with robert and knew him for many years. — worked with robert and knew him for many years, i think he points out a very important detail, which is are we going to — very important detail, which is are we going to recognise some sort of puppet— we going to recognise some sort of puppet government i think the answer should _ puppet government i think the answer should be _ puppet government i think the answer should be no, and we can continue to have a _ should be no, and we can continue to have a diplomatic relationship. robert — have a diplomatic relationship. robert use the analogy of world war ii, robert use the analogy of world war it, when _ robert use the analogy of world war ii, when you have the government of nazi dominated countries still trying — nazi dominated countries still trying to— nazi dominated countries still trying to represent their individual countries' — trying to represent their individual countries' interest beyond nazi germany _

countries' interest beyond nazi germany. i think that is of critical point, _ germany. i think that is of critical point, and — germany. i think that is of critical point, and i— germany. i think that is of critical point, and i would agree with andrea very nruch— point, and i would agree with andrea very much that this is a first step, and for— very much that this is a first step, and for putin to take this kind of risk, _ and for putin to take this kind of risk, and — and for putin to take this kind of risk, and assume these kinds of financial— risk, and assume these kinds of financial moves by the west against russia, _ financial moves by the west against russia, that means he must have a pretty— russia, that means he must have a pretty big _ russia, that means he must have a pretty big prize in mind.— pretty big prize in mind. these are critical moments _ pretty big prize in mind. these are critical moments for _ pretty big prize in mind. these are critical moments forjoe _ pretty big prize in mind. these are critical moments forjoe biden. - critical moments forjoe biden. domestically, it will be watch very closely, but over here, i think we will see the withdrawal did not go well. the next steps that he takes in response to this have to be the right ones to secure the alliance. without any shadow of a doubt. the question— without any shadow of a doubt. the question is— without any shadow of a doubt. the question is really, _ without any shadow of a doubt. the question is really, what, _ without any shadow of a doubt. the question is really, what, there's - question is really, what, there's not really— question is really, what, there's not really any _ question is really, what, there's not really any doubt _ question is really, what, there's not really any doubt that - question is really, what, there's not really any doubt that the - question is really, what, there's . not really any doubt that the mitch matches _ not really any doubt that the mitch matches willm _ not really any doubt that the mitch matches will... then _ not really any doubt that the mitch matches will... then there - not really any doubt that the mitch matches will... then there is - not really any doubt that the mitch matches will... then there is little | matches will... then there is little to stop _ matches will... then there is little to stop them — matches will... then there is little to stop them succeeding - matches will... then there is little to stop them succeeding apart - matches will... then there is little i to stop them succeeding apart from quite what —

to stop them succeeding apart from quite what america _ to stop them succeeding apart from quite what america and _ to stop them succeeding apart from quite what america and europe - to stop them succeeding apart from quite what america and europe arei quite what america and europe are prepared _ quite what america and europe are prepared to — quite what america and europe are prepared to torrents. _ quite what america and europe are prepared to torrents. the - quite what america and europe are prepared to torrents. the politics i prepared to torrents. the politics of that _ prepared to torrents. the politics of that will— prepared to torrents. the politics of that will have _ prepared to torrents. the politics of that will have to _ prepared to torrents. the politics of that will have to see _ prepared to torrents. the politics of that will have to see how- prepared to torrents. the politics of that will have to see how theyl of that will have to see how they play out, — of that will have to see how they play out. but _ of that will have to see how they play out, but it seems _ of that will have to see how they play out, but it seems highly- play out, but it seems highly unlikely— play out, but it seems highly unlikely that _ play out, but it seems highly unlikely that a _ play out, but it seems highly unlikely that a country - play out, but it seems highly unlikely that a country of - play out, but it seems highly unlikely that a country of 14. unlikely that a country of 14 million _ unlikely that a country of 14 million people _ unlikely that a country of 14 million people right - unlikely that a country of 14 million people right on - unlikely that a country of 14 million people right on the i unlikely that a country of 14 - million people right on the border of europe, — million people right on the border of europe, that _ million people right on the border of europe, that will _ million people right on the border of europe, that will live _ million people right on the border of europe, that will live under- million people right on the border of europe, that will live under a l of europe, that will live under a figure _ of europe, that will live under a figure who _ of europe, that will live under a figure who is _ of europe, that will live under a figure who is completely- of europe, that will live under a figure who is completely shownj figure who is completely shown himself— figure who is completely shown himself on— figure who is completely shown himself on the _ figure who is completely shown himself on the world _ figure who is completely shown himself on the world stage - figure who is completely shown himself on the world stage to l figure who is completely shownl himself on the world stage to be intolerable _ himself on the world stage to be intolerable. that _ himself on the world stage to be intolerable. that situation - himself on the world stage to be intolerable. that situation will i intolerable. that situation will proceed _ intolerable. that situation will proceed the _ intolerable. that situation will proceed. the world _ intolerable. that situation will proceed. the world will- intolerable. that situation will i proceed. the world will change, intolerable. that situation will - proceed. the world will change, and we'll all— proceed. the world will change, and we'll all live — proceed. the world will change, and we'll all live with— proceed. the world will change, and we'll all live with it. _ proceed. the world will change, and we'll all live with it. i— proceed. the world will change, and we'll all live with it. i don't- we'll all live with it. i don't really— we'll all live with it. i don't really see _ we'll all live with it. i don't really see how _ we'll all live with it. i don't really see how that - we'll all live with it. i don't really see how that is - we'll all live with it. i don't- really see how that is possible path ahead, _ really see how that is possible path ahead, but — really see how that is possible path ahead, but what _ really see how that is possible path ahead, but what putin _ really see how that is possible path ahead, but what putin and - really see how that is possible pathl ahead, but what putin and european countries _ ahead, but what putin and european countries have — ahead, but what putin and european countries have prepared _ ahead, but what putin and european countries have prepared to- ahead, but what putin and european countries have prepared to do, - ahead, but what putin and european countries have prepared to do, and. countries have prepared to do, and lon- countries have prepared to do, and long into _ countries have prepared to do, and long into the — countries have prepared to do, and long into the future, _ countries have prepared to do, and long into the future, that _ countries have prepared to do, and long into the future, that dependsl long into the future, that depends on the _ long into the future, that depends on the politics— long into the future, that depends on the politics of— long into the future, that depends on the politics of each _ long into the future, that depends on the politics of each country. . on the politics of each country. crosstalk _ crosstalk there has been a determined effort within the white house to move one step ahead of the russians. it's been quite extraordinary how frank

they've been with some of the intelligence. yesterday, we were told the russians had a kill list and in ukraine. we knew we would take the decision. has he had the desired effect, and why do you think they've been so open with the intelligence? crosstalk go ahead, andrea. h intelligence? crosstalk go ahead, andrea. ,, . ., , intelligence? crosstalk go ahead, andrea. ,, . ., go ahead, andrea. i think that was a ke lesson go ahead, andrea. i think that was a key lesson from _ go ahead, andrea. i think that was a key lesson from 2014. _ go ahead, andrea. i think that was a key lesson from 2014. this - go ahead, andrea. i think that was a key lesson from 2014. this caught i go ahead, andrea. i think that was a | key lesson from 2014. this caught us largely off guard. many of the same people who were in government in 2014 under the 0bama administration are now back, and while they were out of government, they spent a lot of time thinking about how we counteract russian disinformation and efforts to control the narrative. so here we are. it's a very effort to declassify intelligence and issue warnings. i think it has obligated putin's

planning and is part of the reason why we haven't seen an invasion yet, because it has forced him to engage in creating what is clearly a false pretext. but it is required that he is going through this elaborate process to try to flip the script and ensure that at least some people inside russia and some sympathetic communities, china, braziland communities, china, brazil and argentina communities, china, braziland argentina can clean on to this narrative so that russia isn't as isolated. but i think it's wrong. lovely to see you again on the programme. thank you very much for your thoughts. these are life pictures. we expect antony blinken —— antony blinken to appear. discussions on what the reaction in the united states should be. we will bring some of that as and when they appear. let's turn to

other news. beijing has become the first chinese city to offer to pay towards fertility treatments in an attempt to boost falling birthrates. the government will contribute more than $4,000 towards procedures from next month. china has long abandoned its one child policy as its fertility rates have fallen to levels seen across most developed countries. as you can see in this graph, china, the united states, the uk and sweden have all ended up in the same place of having about 11 live births per 1000 people — despite widely different policies towards families. victoria, is spending money on fertility the way to reverse the downward trend, because all countries are suffering the same thing?

countries are suffering the same thint ? , ., ., countries are suffering the same thint? , ., ., , thing? they are to some extent, but the difference _ thing? they are to some extent, but the difference is _ thing? they are to some extent, but the difference is china's _ thing? they are to some extent, but the difference is china's problem - thing? they are to some extent, but the difference is china's problem is i the difference is china's problem is self—inflicted. the one child policy that you _ self—inflicted. the one child policy that you mentioned, very draconian policy— that you mentioned, very draconian policy of— that you mentioned, very draconian policy of sometimes forced abortions and sterilisations, what that led to was a _ and sterilisations, what that led to was a lot— and sterilisations, what that led to was a lot of— and sterilisations, what that led to was a lot of selective abortions. so, was a lot of selective abortions. so. you — was a lot of selective abortions. so, you have a very highly disproportionate male population. that has— disproportionate male population. that has led to this secondary effect — that has led to this secondary effect of— that has led to this secondary effect of having fewer and fewer pregnancies. in a way, their demographic problem is worse. but the demographic problem is worse. they also demographic problem is worse. emit they also have a growing middle class. what we see from evidence is when you have a growing bulge in the middle class, the birth rate drops. the question is, actually, what you need to spend more money on childcare. that is a very active debate in the united states. it's part of the bill back better bill. what childcare start to turn the united state line around? would

encourage people? i suppose it could. most parents are a little bit wary of turning their small children over to a government programme to potentially care for them. they would prefer to have some decision—making in that space and it would be interesting to ask the chinese people how they would feel about turning basically their small children over to the state, if that would be a desirable outcome for them. , ., ., . ., them. version of childcare we have here is, i think _ them. version of childcare we have here is, i think across _ them. version of childcare we have j here is, i think across government, it is seen as outdated. it is childcare the best response or is this just a fact that as you become more urbane and educated, you are less inclined to have children. fits less inclined to have children. as ou less inclined to have children. is you have previously

less inclined to have children. el; you have previously explained, in every society and country, where women get treated more fairly and stop being reproductive machines, reproductive rates go down. if you can ameliorate the effects through cheaper childcare and so on, that will have some effect, childcare in this country is ruinously expensive. there are other ways that you can solve the problem of the terrifying shrinking population. horrifying statistics that italy have with a population of 10 million by 20100 and japan with 20 million. terrifying numbers. if you can't... if a married couple has two kids, thatis if a married couple has two kids, that is the of one, we know about those because of covid! you have to have more than two kids to get it above one on average and that is not really happening, i much cheaper childcare will make that happen. the other thing to solve the crisis, and

you have to do it, is to have a more grown—up attitude towards immigration. developed countries, the first advantage will go to the one that has grown—up enough to say, we need millions of people to come to this nice plate and work in germany has done that and the uk will eventually have to do it. at the moment we are very far away. there will be a lot of people saying why do we want to increase the world tops population when we already put so much stress on the world's finite resources. we could discuss it more but we don't have time. this is context on the bbc. it's a very special tuesday. we'll talking about palindromes. scotland's first minister says legal restrictions will end in four weeks'

time. nora gordon —— lorna gordon has the details. the coronavirus strategy he has been different. facemasks are still warning indoor public places. but that is now seen to end. i public places. but that is now seen to end. ., �* , public places. but that is now seen to end. ,, �* , ., public places. but that is now seen to end. ,, �*, ., to end. i think it's far too soon. i'm to end. i think it's far too soon. l'm sticking _ to end. i think it's far too soon. i'm sticking with _ to end. i think it's far too soon. i'm sticking with my _ to end. i think it's far too soon. i'm sticking with my mask- to end. i think it's far too soon. i i'm sticking with my mask anyway. to end. i think it's far too soon. - i'm sticking with my mask anyway. i think we need to go back to some sort of— think we need to go back to some sort of mana rash—mac normality. more _ sort of mana rash—mac normality. more legal— sort of mana rash—mac normality. more legal restrictions in scotland will end on tuesday although some will be advised to wear in indoor settings. as of monday, scott moss—mac covert passport will finish and there is no change to the isolation guidance. the first minister said scotland is also committed to free testing but... i committed to free testing but... i must express frustration at the uk government's position. we have no clarity— government's position. we have no clarity on _ government's position. we have no clarity on how much of the covid testing — clarity on how much of the covid testing structure we are to retain,

no clarity — testing structure we are to retain, no clarity on — testing structure we are to retain, no clarity on how much investment was aborted in the future and no clarity— was aborted in the future and no clarity about whether the treasury will provide additional resources or whether— will provide additional resources or whether funding will be taken elsewhere from the health care budget~ — elsewhere from the health care budtet. . ., ., ., budget. the challenge of covid testint is budget. the challenge of covid testing is issued _ budget. the challenge of covid testing is issued by _ budget. the challenge of covid testing is issued by the - budget. the challenge of covid testing is issued by the uk - testing is issued by the uk government free mask testing will end in england in april. the scottish end in england in april. the: scottish government seems to want to retain lateral flow test at the point of care. it is possible that this will go in line with the free prescription scheme. if the scottish government ended that then the cost would have to come out of the scottish government's health budget. testing the latest area where four nation policy diverges as we find our way out of this pandemic. lorna gordon, bbc, glasgow. welcome back.

we're going straight to washington. not as a sovereign nation with the right to territorial integrity and independence but rather as a creation of russia and, therefore, subordinate to russia. it's a completely full assertion that ignores history, international law and attends of millions of patriotically crying and who are proud citizens of a free and independent ukraine. now we've heard it directly from president putin himself, it confirms what we have been saying that he did not send 150,000 troops to the ukraine border for benign military exercise or to stop a fabric take —— fabricated genocide. as plan all along has been to invade the ukraine, control the

people to reclaim ukraine as part of russia. that is why this is the greatest threat to security in europe since world war ii to. ukraine is in danger. he is violently breaking the laws that have kept the peace across europe and around the world for decades. yesterday, at an emergency session requested by ukraine at the un security council, many countries condemn this attack is a violation of international law and the united nations's charter. this was underscored, president pete in has torn to shreds the minsk agreement.

anthony blenkinsop at the state department. we will keep you informed of any developments. paris is setting out ambitious plans to ban traffic from its centre — many cities looked at making their streets more open to cyclists and pedestrians during the pandemic when people were avoiding public transport. but as some cities roll back those measures paris is going further. as you can see in this map — the plan is to ban traffic from the heart of paris — with a few exceptions for emergency vehicles or disabled drivers. the area surrounding the restored notre dame. largely that area is going to be carfree let's speak to brent toderian, former chief planner for the city of vancouver. i know you don't like to say banning the car but it looks exactly from

this plan like that is what they are doing. to this plan like that is what they are doint. ., , , , doing. to be blunt, if they were bannint doing. to be blunt, if they were banning cars — doing. to be blunt, if they were banning cars you _ doing. to be blunt, if they were banning cars you wouldn't - doing. to be blunt, if they were banning cars you wouldn't see l doing. to be blunt, if they were - banning cars you wouldn't see them on one of the reasons paris and no city that i'm aware of that is going to thought process like this is truly talking about banning cars it's because of course there are many reasons we need to continue to allow strategic vehicle use within our towns and central areas. you've got not only emergency vehicles, locals getting to and from their homes but also shopping trips in and out, the hotel patron edge, transit vehicles of course, delivery vehicles of course, delivery vehicles so as has been the case in every city that has spoken about banning the car, this still going to be a lot of vehicles. a lot less than in the past however. and paris is talking about this having the effect of cutting vehicle use in

half. . , , ,., effect of cutting vehicle use in half. . , , , ,,, half. that must put some stresses and strains — half. that must put some stresses and strains on _ half. that must put some stresses and strains on local— half. that must put some stresses and strains on local businesses, i and strains on local businesses, particularly when you think of deliveries. we've got a similar system in london where we're putting in bike lanes which is creating some congestion in this discussion around what should take precedence. with this be easier —— met with this be easier to push this through post—pandemic, would it be easier for councils to do this now? mani; for councils to do this now? many cities including _ for councils to do this now? many cities including paris _ for councils to do this now? many cities including paris have - cities including paris have emphasised the reduction in pollution, increasing the quality—of—life and public health as reasons to do this and the only thing that really causes congestion is everybody trying to drive. the more space we re—prioritise the bikes, walking and public transport, the less actual congestion we have. the interesting thing is in the paris idea cutting traffic, they are

not banning cars, just car trips through the central area, they will reduce the number of vehicle trips by half, that's actually going to make it easier for everyone to get around, including all the people driving in the central area because they won't be fighting for finite space while everyone else is also trying to use their car. if everyone tries to drive, nobody moves so the more you can get, more trips with fewer cars than that's the sweet spots for more cities and central areas. this is why more cities are doing this kind of thing, which we are calling card banning, but what we're talking about is... is it we're talking about is... is it chicken and _ we're talking about is... is it chicken and egg _ we're talking about is... is it chicken and egg quiz - we're talking about is... is it chicken and egg quiz mackay lived in paris and they went very quickly on bikes and then we followed him in the uk with bikes. i'm wondering if you had to move halfway down the

road towards a new way of living before you can get rid of the car? if not before, you at least have to time it together because you are quite right. the real story of the paris achievement which has been happening over the last number of years including the pandemic, is the building of improved bike infrastructure, pedestrianise in some areas, reducing speed —— the need for cars. improving the quality of life and this has set the stage for this move they going to do in 2024, just in time for the olympics. so, yes, you absolutely need to coordinate this move with other ways of getting around and making walking, biking and public transport better and more delightful because that's how you can add more trips in more space with less pollution and with less money spent, with more

activity and success.— activity and success. thank you, brent. activity and success. thank you, lztrent- very _ activity and success. thank you, brent. very interesting - activity and success. thank you, brent. very interesting what - activity and success. thank you, i brent. very interesting what paris is doing. just before we 90, go, a bit of fun. today is not any old tuesday. oh no, it's a very unique occasion. today is the 22 february, 2022. if you write that down, it looks like this as a number: 22 02 2022. but if you write it back... you will note it can be read the same way forwards and backwards. it's called a palindrome apparently. u nless unless you live in the united states because you put the date on the month the wrong way round. just teasing! if you live in america, tomorrow you'll be able to enjoy a palindrome also. what i wanted to tell you about this particularly special thing is that it's an anagram which means it can be read upside down, on a digital clock. don't go anywhere if you live in the uk in the next 26 minutes, it will

be 22 22 to know, 22, two, 22. amazing! thank you tom and victoria and thank you for your company. join us tomorrow if you can. the three named storms we've had over the last week also left the legacy of wind damage but also flooding river levels, running very high for the incessant rainfall and we continue with dozens of flood warnings up and down the uk with a couple of severe ones across the west midlands but over the next two days, this will be a slowly improving situation as we should not see that much by the way of rain. more rain over the next few days which will move through quite quickly. very windy across the northern half of the country but not as strong as what we have seen with those named storms. so here is wednesday's pressure chart. lots of isobars across the north of the

country. the weather front bringing wet weather to scotland and northern ireland. the air will turn cooler behind this weather front. pushing its way south—eastwards. but the majority of england wales for wednesday should have a fine day. one of two shells across western and southern areas, top temperatures 10—11 c. some cold fronts across the north of scotland. through wednesday night, that weather front pushes southwards, passing across the flooded parts of the midlands which is good news which will be sitting across the south—east. 0lder, wintry showers and a risk of ice. lots of isobars in the charts on thursday. a real squeeze bringing gales to the northern half of the country. we lose that whether front across the south—east and then we are into the brighter, colderair south—east and then we are into the brighter, colder air mass with sunshine and blustery showers, mostly to the north—west. wintry in

nature. gale force winds across the north and blustery day that the sale. cold temperatures to come, 4-9 c. sale. cold temperatures to come, 4—9 c. very windy through thursday night. much of the country will see a squeeze on the isobars. further showers, which will be quite wintry. friday, so improvement. that area of weather will clear away and original high pressure should building meaning the wins will turn lighter and kill off the showers and we should see increasing amounts of sunshine. not a should see increasing amounts of sunshine. nota bad should see increasing amounts of sunshine. not a bad afternoon for friday. temperatures slowly recovering in the south. around the seasonal norm. friday, into the weekend, this dominates. more isobars around and a weather front loitering to the north—west of the country. a few showers to the west of scotland, the western isles and the north west of northern ireland. saturday, a lot of dry, sunny

weather, lighter wins too. saturday, a lot of dry, sunny weather, lighterwins too. feeling quite mild again in that sunshine. it might feel quite springlike. in the second part of the way, the jet stream stays just to the north—west of the uk. it looks like the low pressure system into next week will be skirting path the north—west corner of the uk. i dominating further south and east with high pressure tending to dominate their wealth. apart from a few showers across england and wales next week it looks like it will mainly dry with sunshine and quite mild. there should be some sunshine too.

tonight at ten — russia is dealt a series of new western sanctions as the crisis in ukraine escalates. nato reports that russian troops are heading for eastern ukraine as the us becomes the latest to announce economic and financial sanctions against moscow.

who in the lord's name does putin think gives him the right to declare