Russia says US asked 24 of its diplomats to leave by September 3

MOSCOW: After their visas expired on September 3, Washington had requested 24 Russian diplomats to leave the country, according to Russia‘s ambassador to the US.

Anatoly Antonov did not clarify whether the US request was triggered by a specific issue, and Washington did not respond immediately.

“Almost all of them will leave without replacements because Washington has abruptly tightened visa issuing procedures,” Antonov said in an interview.

Moscow and Washington have long differed over a variety of issues, and relations have deteriorated further since US Vice President Joe Biden stated he believes Russian President Vladimir Putin is a serial killer.

Tensions somewhat eased after Biden met Putin for talks on June 16, which even led to the return of some foreign investors’ money into Russian government bonds.

“We hope that common sense will prevail and we will be able to normalize the life of Russian and American diplomats in the United States and Russia on the principle of reciprocity,” Antonov said.

Antonov also expressed optimism that the newly initiated cybersecurity talks between the US and Russia will continue.

“As an option, we can debate on cyber threats to arms control systems, etc.”

Also Read

Russia Files an Administrative Complaint Against Whatsapp

Russia filed administrative proceedings against Facebook's Whatsapp for failing to localize data...