Western sanctions against Russia are the most ill-conceived and counterproductive policy in recent international history. World energy prices are rocketing, inflation is soaring, supply chains are chaotic and millions are being starved of gas, grain and fertiliser. Defence analysts are dumb on the subject. Strategy thinktanks are silent. Yet, hint at scepticism on the subject and you will be excoriated as “pro-Putin” and anti-Ukraine. The reality of sanctions on Russia is that they invite retaliation. Putin is free to freeze Europe this winter. He has slashed supply from major pipelines such as Nord Stream 1 by up to 80%. World...