Russia has expelled a British diplomat working at the embassy in Moscow on allegations of espionage, further straining diplomatic relations between the two countries. The Federal Security Service (FSB) of Russia claimed that the diplomat provided false information to enter the country as a cover for espionage activities, violating Russian law.
The FSB identified signs of intelligence and subversive work by the diplomat, posing a threat to the security of the Russian Federation. As a result, the Russian Foreign Ministry revoked the diplomat's diplomatic accreditation and ordered him to leave Russia within two weeks.
This recent expulsion comes after Russia accused the UK of sending intelligence officers to Moscow, leading to the revocation of their accreditations in August. The UK has denied these allegations, calling them baseless.
Escalating Tensions Amid Ukraine Conflict
The strained relations between the UK and Russia have been exacerbated by Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The UK has joined Western nations in imposing heavy sanctions on Russia and providing military and economic support to Ukraine.
Recent military actions in the region have further heightened tensions. Ukraine reportedly launched British-French-made Storm Shadow missiles at Russian targets, prompting condemnation from Russian President Vladimir Putin. In response, Russia conducted a record 188 drone attacks on Ukraine, causing damage to critical infrastructure in Ternopil.
The conflict continues to escalate, with air defense interceptions heard in the Kyiv region and residential homes damaged by downed drones. The situation remains volatile as both sides engage in military actions.
