Diplomatic Tensions Escalate as UK Envoy Expelled from Russia

A British diplomat has been expelled from Russia on accusations of espionage, marking another chapter in the ongoing diplomatic tensions between the two nations. The unnamed diplomat has been given two weeks to leave the country, as confirmed by the Russian foreign ministry following allegations linking the individual to the British secret service. Translation from a post on the Telegram channel of the FSB, Russia's domestic intelligence agency, indicated that Danae Dholakia, the British chargée d'affaires, was summoned to be informed of the expulsion. The Russian foreign ministry stated that Moscow would not tolerate the activities of undeclared British intelligence officers within its borders, cautioning that a decisive response would follow if the United Kingdom escalates the situation. The statement warned of a 'decisive mirror response' should the UK take further actions against Russian diplomats. The fractious relationship between Russia and the UK has seen both countries periodically expel each other's diplomats since the onset of the Ukraine conflict. Most recently, in March of the previous year, Russia had expelled a British diplomat and the spouse of another, alleging their involvement in espionage activities. In reaction, the UK expelled a Russian diplomat, with then Foreign Secretary David Lammy denouncing Russia's ongoing campaign of intimidation against British embassy personnel as relentless and unacceptable. Lammy further condemned Russia's frequent threats to UK security. Despite these continuous diplomatic clashes, both Russia and the United States had previously committed to rebuilding staffing levels at their respective embassies last year, a plan that was part of an outreach strategy by U.S. President Donald Trump towards Moscow, which faced widespread criticism in Europe. The UK Foreign Office has been approached for remarks on the situation, but it remains to be seen how this latest incident will further impact the already strained relations between the UK and Russia. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2