On Wednesday, the UK government heightened tensions with the Kremlin by announcing the expulsion of a Russian defense attache, citing undisclosed ties to military intelligence.
Interior Minister James Cleverly informed parliament of the decision, revealing plans to strip diplomatic status from several Russian-owned properties suspected of being used for intelligence purposes, including locations in Sussex and London.
Additionally, new restrictions on Russian diplomatic visas were unveiled, including caps on the duration of stays in the UK.
The move comes amid escalating concerns over increased Russian activity in the UK, including an arson attack allegedly linked to the Kremlin on a Ukrainian-affiliated business. Last month, a British man reportedly associated with the Wagner Group was charged in connection with the incident.
London has previously accused Moscow of various transgressions, including the poisoning of Russian ex-agents on British soil, cyberattacks, and disinformation campaigns.
As a steadfast NATO ally of Ukraine, the UK has been providing military support to aid in the country’s defense against Russia.
Cleverly emphasized that these measures aim to convey the UK’s firm stance against such escalations, despite anticipated Russian responses accusing the UK of Russophobia and spreading conspiracy theories.
He reiterated the demand for Russia to halt its actions, withdraw troops from Ukraine, and cease malign activities, emphasizing that the UK will not be swayed by propaganda tactics from President Putin’s administration.
