Russia Expels UK Diplomat Accused of Espionage

Russia has announced the expulsion of a British diplomat accused of working for UK intelligence. The Russian Foreign Ministry summoned Britain’s charge d’affaires and demanded the diplomat leave the country within two weeks.

The expelled diplomat, identified as Gareth Samuel Davies, served as the second secretary at the UK Embassy in Moscow. Moscow warned London against escalating the situation, promising a “firm symmetrical response” if retaliation occurs.

The move continues a long history of diplomatic tensions, with London and Moscow regularly exchanging accusations of espionage. Relations have been strained since Russia’s military offensive in Ukraine.

Past incidents, including the poisoning of Alexander Litvinenko in 2006 and Sergei Skripal in 2018, highlight decades of mutual distrust between the two countries.

Experts say the latest expulsion could trigger further diplomatic reprisals, deepening already frayed ties between the UK and Russia.

Russia’s action comes amid heightened global scrutiny of intelligence activities, signaling that both nations remain on high alert over security and espionage concerns.

The UK government has yet to officially respond to Russia’s announcement, though historical precedent suggests a reciprocal measure is likely.