Mr Juncker has cosied up to the newly-elected Russian President with a gushing letter of congratulations.

The Commission President’s spokesman Margaritis Schinas read out the letter to the Brussels press pack.

He said: “I wish to convey my congratulations on your re-election as president of the Russian Federation.

“I have always argued positive relations between the European Union and the Russian Federation are crucial to the security of our continent.

“Our common objective should be to reestablish a cooperative pan-European security order.

“I hope you would use your fourth term in office to pursue this goal. I will always be a partner in this endeavour. I wish you every success in carrying out your higher responsibilities.”

Mr Juncker's comments provoked a backlash from Conservative MEPs in Brussels, who branded his letter "
Ashley Fox, the leading Tory in Brussels, said: "This is a disgraceful letter from Jean-Claude Juncker.

"To congratulate Vladimir Putin on his election victory without referring to the clear ballot rigging that took place is bad enough. But his failure to mention Russian's responsibility for a military nerve agent attack on innocent people in my constituency is nauseating.

"The European Commission President is appeasing a man who poses a clear threat to western security."