The British Foreign Office has accused Moscow of orchestrating a coordinated intimidation effort after another diplomat was targeted with spying charges.
Relations between London and Moscow have deteriorated further following the Russian government’s decision to deport a British diplomatic staff member. The Foreign Office issued a sharp rebuke, describing the move as part of an “aggressive and co-ordinated campaign” aimed at harassing embassy personnel. British officials asserted that the charges of espionage leveled against their staff are part of a pattern of disinformation used by the FSB.
According to the FSB, the diplomat—who was named in Russian state media—clandestinely sought sensitive information while attending various economic meetings. The security agency also alleged that the official’s entry permit was obtained through the intentional provision of misleading personal data. Consequently, his accreditation has been cancelled, necessitating an immediate exit from the country.
“The UK does not stand for intimidation of British embassy staff and their families.”
The incident mirrors a similar standoff in March 2025, when Moscow expelled two British officials under nearly identical pretenses. In that instance, the UK responded by revoking the status of a Russian diplomat and a diplomatic spouse. Analysts suggest this latest move is a continuation of the “tit-for-tat” cycle of retaliation that has seen dozens of staff members from both nations sent home over the past four years.
SOURCES: UK Foreign Office, Russian Federal Security Service, Danae Dholakia, Tass News Agency.
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