UK Rejects Russian Claims of Diplomatic Espionage

The United Kingdom has strongly condemned accusations by Russia that a British diplomat in Moscow was engaged in espionage, describing the allegations as unfounded and politically motivated.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the UK Foreign Office responded to Russia’s decision to expel a British diplomat, following claims by Moscow that the individual was linked to British intelligence services. The ministry said the Kremlin has a history of making baseless and hostile allegations against diplomatic staff and confirmed that London is carefully assessing its response.

The Foreign Office added that Russia’s actions reflect growing desperation and warned that targeting British diplomats undermines the fundamental conditions required for diplomatic missions to operate effectively. Officials stressed that the UK is considering its options with caution and resolve.

Earlier, Russian authorities ordered the expulsion of a British diplomat after the Federal Security Service alleged that the individual was acting as a spy. Russia’s Foreign Ministry said the diplomat, whose identity was not disclosed, had been given two weeks to leave the country after intelligence information suggested links to British intelligence.

The Russian Foreign Ministry also summoned the deputy head of the British mission in Moscow to formally notify her of the expulsion. Moscow warned that it would not tolerate what it described as undeclared intelligence activity by British officials and threatened further action if tensions escalate.

The incident adds to mounting diplomatic strain between London and Moscow, further deepening a relationship already marked by mutual distrust, expulsions, and accusations over security and intelligence activities.