Belarus recorded its lowest temperatures in 100 years yesterday, and freezing conditions have also caused chaos in Ukraine, the Baltic states and Scandinavia. Officials in those countries say there is growing pressure on energy supplies, with power shortages as Russia cuts deliveries to fight the freeze at home.

Dozens have died of the cold, with temperatures as low as . . .33degreesC recorded.

In eastern Ukraine, 10 people have died as a result of the cold.