Russia has expelled a British diplomat, accusing them of espionage and providing false information to obtain a visa. The diplomat has been given two weeks to leave the country, according to a statement released by the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB), the successor to the KGB, alleges the diplomat was engaged in “intelligence and subversive activities” that threatened Russia’s security. The FSB claims the diplomat “knowingly provided false information about himself when applying for entry into our country” and attempted to gather information about the Russian economy during unofficial meetings.
Danae Dholakia, Britain’s most senior diplomat in Russia, was summoned to the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to receive the protest. The ministry stated that Moscow would not tolerate the activities of undeclared British intelligence officers and would respond accordingly if the situation escalated.
“It was particularly emphasized that Moscow will not tolerate the activities of undeclared British intelligence officers in Russia, and our uncompromising position on this issue will continue to be formulated in accordance with national security interests,” the ministry statement read. “a warning was issued that if London escalates the situation, the Russian side will immediately respond accordingly.”
This expulsion follows a pattern of strained relations between Russia and the United Kingdom, particularly in the wake of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and accusations of Russian interference in Western affairs. The incident also occurs against a backdrop of heightened security concerns within Russia, following the death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny in February.
Earlier this month, Russia’s ambassador to the UK, Andrey Kelin, denied allegations that the Kremlin was involved in Navalny’s death, dismissing claims of poisoning as baseless. Kelin stated the death had “nothing to do with us.”
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also urged London to ensure that British citizens, particularly embassy staff, provide accurate information when applying for visas, referencing previous instances of alleged false information provided by British diplomats. The ministry did not specify the details of those previous cases.
As of today, the British government has not issued a formal response to the expulsion, and the identity of the diplomat has not been publicly released. The situation remains unresolved, with the potential for further diplomatic repercussions.
