Russian authorities have ordered a British diplomat, Edward Pryor Wilkes, to leave the country over espionage allegations. The Federal Security Service (FSB) claims Wilkes provided false information to gain entry into Russia and has been working under diplomatic cover for British intelligence. These actions supposedly posed a threat to Russian security, leading to the revocation of his diplomatic accreditation.
Maria Zakharova, a spokesperson for Russia's Foreign Ministry, confirmed the decision and stated that Wilkes has two weeks to depart. The British ambassador was summoned to receive the notice. The United Kingdom's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is yet to comment on the situation.
This expulsion is part of ongoing diplomatic tensions between Russia and NATO allies, which have reached a nadir since the Cold War. Diplomatic relations have deteriorated significantly since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2024, with both Russia and the UK previously engaging in tit-for-tat expulsions of diplomats. Indeed, Wilkes replaced one of six British diplomats who were expelled in August. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)
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