Russia Expels British Diplomat Over Alleged Espionage.

A flag flies above the British embassy in Moscow, Russia September 13, 2024. Courtesy image.

Russia has expelled a British diplomat accused of spying and engaging in activities deemed a threat to its national security.

The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) announced the decision on Tuesday, alleging that the diplomat, Edward Wilkes, had been involved in intelligence and subversive operations under the guise of his role at the British Embassy in Moscow.

Wilkes, identified as a second secretary—a junior diplomatic rank—was accused of entering Russia with falsified information and conducting activities that violated his diplomatic status. His photo was prominently displayed across Russian television news reports as the FSB detailed its claims.

The FSB asserted that it uncovered “an undeclared British intelligence presence” within the embassy and attributed subversive activities directly to Wilkes. “The said diplomat was conducting intelligence and subversive work that threatens the security of the Russian Federation,” the agency stated.

The UK government swiftly rejected the allegations, labeling them baseless and politically motivated. In a statement, British officials promised a firm response to what they described as a provocative act by Moscow.

This incident is the latest in a series of diplomatic tensions between the two nations, which have seen relations sour over issues such as espionage accusations, sanctions, and differing stances on global conflicts. British officials noted that the expulsion marks an escalation in hostilities and vowed to address the matter through diplomatic channels.

The Kremlin has not provided additional evidence to support its claims, and analysts suggest the move could be part of a broader strategy to assert dominance in ongoing geopolitical rivalries.

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