Express & Star

Express & Star comment: Evidence is building up on Russia

In the aftermath of the Salisbury poisonings, there were continued calls emanating from the far left of the political spectrum for evidence of Russian involvement.

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Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn

In particular, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn – a man well known for having a penchant for dubious associations – was extremely cautious over holding the Kremlin responsible for the incident.

At the time Mr Corbyn called for the involvement of international bodies in the investigation, and at one point bizarrely suggested that Novichok samples should be sent to Moscow for testing.

Now six months down the line from an incident, which has since resulted in a tragic death, it appears that Russia was to blame after all.

Not only were the two men accused of the poisoning Russian nationals, they are also now thought to be officers from Russia’s military intelligence service.

I’m not sure how much more evidence Mr Corbyn needs than the crystal clear CCTV footage of the men’s movements on British soil.

But surely even the ‘old Trot’ himself would have to admit the finger of guilt is pointing straight at Russia.

One man who is certainly owed an apology is Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson.

The South Staffordshire MP made it very clear from the start that Russia was to blame for this dreadful attack.

Yet in some circles he was mocked and ridiculed for daring to speak his mind.

The Government’s thoughts and actions must now turn to bringing these men to justice. This will be no easy task.

As expected, Moscow has denied all knowledge of their very existence, while Britain’s security services believe it is likely they were operating under false names.

While efforts to locate them are ongoing, it is perhaps time for Mr Corbyn and his ilk to face facts.

The threat from Russia is not some sham cooked up by the Tories in a bid to discredit Vladimir Putin.

It is very real, and needs to be taken extremely seriously in order to prevent further attacks in this country.

If there was even a shred of doubt over the danger posed by Moscow to Britain, events in Salisbury have surely put it to bed.