Former British spy Christopher Steele, who wrote a dossier on Donald Trump and alleged Russian interference in the 2016 US elections, told Sky News: “Certainly, from what we’re hearing from sources in Russia and elsewhere, is that Putin is, in fact, quite seriously ill. It’s not clear exactly what this illness is — whether it’s incurable or terminal, or whatever. But certainly, I think it’s part of the equation.” The speculation over the Russian President’s turbulent health comes at a moment of relief for Ukraine. More than 260 Ukrainian troops have been evacuated from the Azovstal steelplant in the besieged port city, Mariupol. The evacuation comes after a weeks-long standoff with Russian forces who have continuously shelled the plant. Anna Malyar, Ukraine’s deputy defence minister, said an exchange would be made for their safe return home.
FOLLOW BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES…