Russia has expelled two British diplomats, accusing them of engaging in espionage activities, the country’s Federal Security Service (FSB) announced.
The individuals targeted include the second secretary of the British embassy in Moscow and the spouse of another British diplomat, both of whom have been stripped of their accreditation in Russia.
According to the FSB, the diplomats allegedly provided false information about their identities and were involved in intelligence and covert operations. The agency claimed counterintelligence efforts had uncovered an undisclosed British intelligence presence operating under diplomatic cover.
Russian authorities accused the expelled diplomats of carrying out “intelligence and subversive activities that threaten Russia’s security.” The FSB also stated that they had “intentionally provided false information when obtaining entry clearance, violating Russian law.”
Both diplomats have been ordered to leave the country within two weeks.
In a statement, the FSB reaffirmed its commitment to “combat the reconnaissance and disruptive activities of foreign intelligence agencies by all available means.”
The expulsions come shortly after Russia vowed to retaliate against the UK’s decision to expel a Russian diplomat from London.
