LONDON: Russia has revoked the accreditation of two British diplomats, accusing them of intelligence operations that threaten national security.
The Federal Security Service (FSB) claimed they misrepresented information when obtaining entry permission, violating Russian laws.
Officials found evidence of intelligence activities, prompting their expulsion within two weeks.
The Russian Foreign Ministry called a British embassy representative to issue a strong protest.
A warning was issued, stating that further escalation by the UK would lead to a reciprocal Russian response.
Growing Tensions
Relations between Russia and Britain have deteriorated since Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Last year, Russia expelled six British diplomats in September and another in November over similar accusations.
Moscow claims Britain’s Foreign Office now focuses on defeating Russia strategically.
Hundreds of British political and media figures have been banned from entering Russia.
The UK has dismissed previous spying allegations, calling them politically motivated.
Political Context
Russia frequently takes diplomatic actions at key moments in the Ukraine conflict.
This week, a Ukrainian delegation is meeting US officials in Saudi Arabia for peace talks.
Britain recently hosted a European summit to discuss Ukraine’s future strategy.
Russia’s latest expulsion could be a warning to other Western nations supporting Ukraine.
The Kremlin remains firm in its stance against Western involvement in the war.
British Response
London dismissed the spying accusations, calling them unfounded and retaliatory.
The UK continues to criticize Russia’s diplomatic decisions as tactics to distract from Ukraine.
Despite diplomatic tensions, Britain remains committed to supporting Kyiv.
Officials state that Russia’s accusations are attempts to justify internal security measures.
The UK Foreign Office has yet to announce countermeasures following the expulsions.
