Russia Expels British Diplomat Over Espionage Allegations

Russia has ordered the expulsion of a British diplomat accused of espionage, intensifying tensions between the two nations. The diplomat, identified as Edward Wilkes, has been given 14 days to leave the country, Russian authorities announced on Wednesday.

The Russian FSB Security Service claims that Wilkes, serving as a Second Secretary at the British Embassy, was involved in intelligence activities deemed a threat to Russia’s national security. According to the FSB, Wilkes allegedly provided false information upon entering Russia, and evidence suggests his involvement in clandestine operations.

The British Foreign Office has rejected Russia’s allegations, labeling them as “groundless and provocative.” A spokesperson stated,

“These baseless claims are part of Russia’s continued pattern of disinformation and harassment of our diplomats. We will respond appropriately.”

This marks the sixth British diplomat expelled by Russia in 2024. Relations between London and Moscow have been strained for years, with both nations accusing each other of espionage and interference. Key incidents fueling this rift include:

• The 2006 Litvinenko poisoning in London, linked to Russian agents.
• The 2018 Novichok attack in Salisbury, where former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter were targeted, prompting mass diplomatic expulsions by the UK and its allies.

Analysts warn that the expulsion could lead to retaliatory measures from Britain, further destabilizing bilateral ties. With espionage accusations repeatedly surfacing, the diplomatic relationship between the two countries remains highly volatile.