The Russian government has expelled two British diplomats, accusing them of espionage activities. The individuals, including the second secretary of the British embassy in Moscow and the spouse of another diplomat, were stripped of their accreditation, according to the Federal Security Service (FSB).
The FSB report claimed the diplomats had provided false information about their identities and cited alleged evidence of intelligence and covert operations. The agency stated that “counterintelligence work” revealed an undisclosed British intelligence presence under the cover of the British embassy.
The diplomats were accused of conducting “intelligence and subversive activities” that posed a threat to Russia’s security. The FSB also stated that they had intentionally provided false information when applying for entry into Russia, thus violating the country’s laws. Both diplomats have been ordered to leave within two weeks.
In its statement, the FSB emphasized its continued efforts to combat foreign intelligence activities. This expulsion comes just days after Russia pledged to retaliate against the expulsion of a Russian diplomat from London.