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Tensions between Britain and Russia rise, London responds to Moscow and expels Russian diplomat
2026-02-02 16:37:45 / BOTA
Britain has expelled a Russian diplomat, in a reciprocal move following Moscow's expulsion last month of a British diplomat who was accused by Russian authorities of espionage.
According to the British Foreign Office, Russia's accusations are "baseless", while the expulsion of the British diplomat was described as "unprovoked and unjustified". A Foreign Office spokesman stated that the British diplomat was unfairly accused of being a member of the secret services, without such a thing having been stated.
"By summoning the Russian ambassador, a senior Foreign Office official made it clear that the UK will not tolerate intimidation of British embassy staff. For this reason, we are taking appropriate action today, by withdrawing the accreditation of a Russian diplomat," the spokesman said.
Amid the war in Ukraine, Russia and Western countries have repeatedly accused each other of espionage campaigns, with an intensity that diplomats say has not been seen since the Cold War. Western diplomats in Moscow have said they are subject to intrusive surveillance and constant harassment.
Britain warned Russia not to continue this approach towards its diplomats.
"Any further action by Russia will be considered an escalation and will receive an appropriate response," the spokesman added.
The Russian Embassy in London did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment on the matter.
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