Moscow has accused Britain of attempting to sabotage diplomatic efforts in Ukraine, fueling an already tense relationship between the two nations. Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) claimed that the U.K. is working against dialogue between Moscow and Washington, fearing it could disrupt its strategic goals.
The latest round of hostilities began when Russia expelled two British diplomats, accusing them of espionage. The diplomats were given two weeks to leave the country, with Russian authorities alleging they had engaged in intelligence activities under diplomatic cover. Britain swiftly responded by revoking the credentials of a Russian diplomat, rejecting Moscow’s claims as “unfounded.”
In a statement, the SVR suggested that Britain’s actions reflect a long-standing pattern of global interference. Russian officials accused the U.K. of attempting to isolate Russia while manipulating international conflicts. The statement referenced Britain’s role before the two world wars, implying that history is repeating itself.
British lawmakers dismissed the allegations, calling them part of Russia’s misinformation strategy. Liberal Democrat MP Calum Miller argued that Moscow is attempting to rewrite history to justify its own actions in Ukraine.
Concerns about Russian espionage have been growing in Britain. Authorities recently uncovered a Kremlin-linked spy network operating in the U.K., adding to existing worries about Moscow’s intelligence operations in Europe.
As U.S., Russian, and Ukrainian representatives continue negotiations in Saudi Arabia, the latest diplomatic blows between Russia and Britain highlight the growing distrust between Moscow and Western nations.
