Overview
- Britain summoned Russia’s ambassador on Wednesday to inform him it had revoked the accreditation of a Russian diplomat in a reciprocal move.
- Downing Street said Russia’s expulsion of a UK embassy employee and a subsequent public smear campaign forced the response, and it warned that any further Russian step would draw a firm and proportionate reply.
- In March, Russia ordered a British embassy official to leave after accusing him of spying, with the FSB naming him as Albertus Gerardus Janse van Rensburg, a claim the UK rejects.
- The UK described Russia’s actions as harassment of its diplomats, while Moscow had not publicly commented on the new UK measure at the time of reporting.
- The exchange fits a pattern of strained ties since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, with UK ministers also citing recent interceptions of a Russian mission to survey undersea cables that carry most of Britain’s internet traffic.