Russia has stepped up its threats to the West in response. On Tuesday, the 1,000th day of his invasion of Ukraine, Putin signed a revised nuclear doctrine declaring that a conventional attack on Russia by any nation that is supported by a nuclear power will be considered a joint attack on his country.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned Friday that there is a "serious and real" threat of global war after this week's major escalation in the conflict in Ukraine.

Vladimir Putin has made a number of threats towards the UK and US in recent weeks - and it is causing significant issues at home for the despot.