• UK government expels Russian defense attaché for being an undeclared military intelligence officer.
• UK remains a staunch NATO supporter of Ukraine, offering training for troops and supplying military equipment.
• The UK warns of potential Russophobia accusations and conspiracy theories from Russia.

Raising tensions with the Kremlin, the UK government announced on Wednesday its decision to expel a Russian defense attaché for being “an undeclared military intelligence officer.” Interior Minister James Cleverly informed parliament that the UK would also revoke the diplomatic status of several Russian-owned properties, including one in Sussex, southern England, and another in London “which we believe have been used for intelligence purposes.”

He added that there would also be new restrictions on Russian diplomatic visas, such as a cap on the length of time Russian diplomats can spend in the UK.

The move comes as the UK expresses concern over an apparent increase in “malign” Russian activity on UK soil, including an arson attack on a Ukrainian-linked business allegedly orchestrated by the Kremlin.

Last month, authorities charged a British man, who is claimed to have links to the Wagner Group, in connection with that case.

London has previously leveled accusations against Moscow, blaming it for the poisoning of two Russian former agents on UK soil, as well as for a series of cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns.

The UK currently stands as a staunch NATO supporter of Ukraine, offering training for troops and supplying military equipment in the fight against Russia.

Cleverly stated that the new package of measures was intended “to make clear to Russia that we will not tolerate such apparent escalations.”

He cautioned that Moscow would level accusations of Russophobia and propagate conspiracy theories in response to his announcement.

“This is not new, and the British people and the British Government will not fall for it, and will not be taken for fools by (President Vladimir) Putin’s bots, trolls, and lackeys.

“Russia’s explanation was inadequate. Our response will be resolute and firm.

“Our message to Russia is clear: stop this illegal war, withdraw your troops from Ukraine, cease this malign activity.”

Also Read

UK explored Rwanda-Style asylum agreement with Iraq

UK government advises against travel to Iraq due to its dangerous nature....