Tensions between the UK and Russia escalated after Moscow revoked the accreditation of six British diplomats, accusing them of espionage and sabotage. The UK Foreign Office called the allegations ‘completely baseless’, stating that this was a tit-for-tat measure in response to Western actions against Russian activities in Europe and the UK. The diplomats have already left Russia, and the UK government remains resolute in protecting its national interests. The expulsion came ahead of a planned meeting between British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and US President Joe Biden to discuss the situation in Ukraine.
The FSB, Russia’s Federal Security Service, claimed that the British diplomats were coordinating moves to undermine Russia in Ukraine, and accused them of recruiting Russian teenagers and meeting with opposition figures. Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs supported the FSB’s actions, criticizing the British embassy for violating the Vienna Convention. The UK had previously expelled a Russian defense attaché for spying and imposed restrictions on Russian diplomats.
As the situation unfolds, concerns are raised about potential military repercussions if Ukraine is allowed to use Western-made weapons inside Russia. President Vladimir Putin warned that this would mean NATO is ‘at war’ with Russia. Starmer has reaffirmed the UK’s support for Ukraine and will discuss potential actions with Biden. The diplomatic feud between the UK and Russia has reached a historic low, with tensions only intensifying as the conflict in Ukraine continues.
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