UK TO EXPEL RUSSIAN DIPLOMAT FOR SPYING - CLEVERLY

An "undeclared" Russian military intelligence officer will be expelled from the UK, Home Secretary James Cleverly has told the House of Commons.

He also announced the closure of several Russian diplomatic premises and new restrictions on diplomatic visas.

"We should expect accusations of Russophobia, conspiracy theories and hysteria from the Russian government" in the coming days, Mr Cleverly said.

The Kremlin has not publicly responded to the accusation.

"This is not new and the British people will not fall for it," Mr Cleverly said.

He told MPs: "I can tell the House that we will expel the Russian defence attache, who is an undeclared military intelligence officer.

"We will remove diplomatic premises status from several Russian-owned properties in the UK, including Seacox Heath house, a Russian-owned property in Sussex, and the trade and defence section in Highgate, which we believe have been used for intelligence purposes.

"We are imposing new restrictions on Russian diplomatic visas, including capping the length of time Russian diplomats can spend in the UK."

Mr Cleverly said Russia's explanation was "totally inadequate" and the UK response "will be resolute and firm".

"Our message to Russia is clear: stop this illegal war, withdraw your troops from Ukraine, cease this malign activity."

2024-05-08T13:45:33Z dg43tfdfdgfd