Russia Expels British Diplomat Over Espionage Allegations

Russia has expelled a British diplomat, accusing him of engaging in economic espionage and activities threatening national security. The Federal Security Service (FSB) said the diplomat, a second secretary at the British embassy in Moscow, was involved in intelligence-gathering efforts, including attempts to obtain sensitive economic information through informal meetings with Russian experts.

The move comes amid heightened tensions between Moscow and London during the ongoing Ukraine conflict, with Russia increasingly portraying Britain as a primary adversary. Russian authorities warned citizens to avoid contact with British diplomats, cautioning that such interactions could lead to serious legal consequences. The Russian Foreign Ministry also lodged an official protest with Britain’s diplomatic mission.

Britain has not immediately responded to the latest expulsion, though it has previously rejected similar accusations as baseless. Diplomatic relations between Russia and Western nations remain strained, with increased surveillance, travel restrictions on diplomats, and mutual claims of harassment. Western officials describe diplomatic postings in Moscow as increasingly difficult amid rising geopolitical tensions.

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