In his work our most elemental responses were immortalized in luminous gravity.

We are though far closer to the Medieval than the Classical world - in a place of apocalyptic dread, frenzied self-doubt and a security riven by faltering contingencies.

Poland’s position has always been precarious.

Ukraine become a chess piece for the new Cold War.

As the US brokered peace in Ireland, Britain was sidelined.

Britain faces a more grave threat from within than from without.

The Chinese balloon handily tested the Americans' mettle and showed it lacking once again.

The most immediate implications of this will be for Ukraine.