MOSCOW: Russia expelled six diplomats from the United Kingdom (UK), citing escalating Western involvement in the Ukraine conflict.
The decision reflects the growing strain Moscow and Western nations as military support for Ukraine ramps up
Read more: Terrorists in KP “exploit” PUBG for coordination, authorities say
According to reports, the Russian government revoked the diplomatic credentials of six British officials, accusing them of espionage and activities that threaten national security.
The Federal Security Service (FSB), the principle security agency of Russia, of stated that the actions of the British diplomats justified their expulsion.
Read more: Russia’s central bank raises key rate to 19 per cent amid inflationary pressure
The development comes at a time when Western countries, including the UK, are reportedly increasing their military aid to Ukraine. They have so far provided additional weaponry to assist in its defense against Russians aggression.
British Prime Minister is expected to discuss these matters in an upcoming meeting with the United States (US) President Joe Biden.
Read more: Javion Magee: Outcry as black man’s body found hanging from tree
Meanwhile, the Russian president Vladimir Putin issued a warning that if North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) allowed Ukraine to utilise Western-supplied long-range missiles against Russia, it would be regarded as a direct confrontation between the Cold War-era defense alliance and Russia.
The Russian president stressed that such a situation would lead to a “decisive” response from Moscow.
Read more: Alexander Yuk Ching Ma: Ex-CIA spy sentenced to ten years
The expulsion of British diplomats is just one incident in a series of escalating tensions between the powerful European countries, as the war in Ukraine rages on.