Last Post: Europe must act to bring Ukraine war to a swift end

America great again? It was never great; it was only ever Big.

Gary Frances, Bexley, NSW

Bravo, Henry Ergas (“Cold reality is that Putin is no victim of the West”, 7/3). As always, incisive, learned, compelling and prepared to challenge the views of other writers. And bravo, The Australian, for publishing the conflicting views of your columnists. Only in The Australian can one find a proper thrashing out of the issues.

Leni Palk, Unley, SA

The cold reality about Putin is that he ignores the number of Russians who have died in his war against Ukraine or from health issues brought about by poor food quality and medical supplies.

John Houghton, The Gap, Qld

If Britain and France want to help Ukraine they should provide it with the means to rapidly defeat Russia, thereby risking World War III, or co-operate with Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky in bringing the war to an appropriate end.

Alan Franklin, St Ives, NSW

Our defence shortfall could be fixed by Anthony Albanese’s 36,000 new public servants. That number is equivalent to about 60 infantry battalions.

Scott Sturgess, Battery Hill, Qld

Robert Gottliebsen’s article about Australia specialising in drone technology appears to be on the money (“Drone tech our advantage”, 7/3). It would materially increase Australia’s defence capability while strengthening the economy.

Ken Clarke, Tweed Heads, NSW

There have been many letters over the years questioning why Australia sells coal and iron ore to China when it might be an adversary. Recently, China has made threatening moves. It is imperative that Australia makes a choice: China or US.

Peter Lauricella, Beerwah, Qld

Cyclone Alfred seems to be Mother Nature’s payback for the squandering of trillions of valuable dollars trying to control the climate.

Brian Gallery, Mosman, NSW

Cyclone Alfred paused before crossing the coast to have its welcome to country.

Stephen Patten, Wavell Heights, Qld

Given Wayne Swan’s record at predicting budget surpluses, his weather forecasts should be treated with caution.

Shane Hughes, Shenton Park, WA

Cyclone Alfred has once again brought to light the need for all local councils to move overhead power lines underground. Not only are the overhead lines dangerous, they are ugly.

Doug Oates, Noosa Heads, Qld