Tensions between Russia and the West escalated as the Russian authorities accused six British diplomats of spying and announced their expulsion. This move came amid Ukraine’s push to use Western-supplied weapons against Russia, a request supported by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer during his visit to Washington.
The Russian Federal Security Service stated that the diplomats were involved in intelligence-gathering and subversive activities. The British Embassy in Moscow did not comment immediately, but the Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson criticized the diplomats for exceeding the limits outlined by the Vienna Conventions.
Expulsions of diplomats have increased since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, leading to a diplomatic row between Russia and Western countries. The ongoing conflict has resulted in hundreds of diplomats being expelled on both sides.
The recent diplomatic tension underscores the strained relations between Russia and the West, with both sides accusing each other of engaging in espionage and subversive activities. The situation remains volatile, with no immediate resolution in sight.