UK expels Russian defence attache over allegations of espionage for the Kremlin

08 May 2024 , 12:26

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UK expels Russian defence attache over allegations of espionage for the Kremlin

The UK will expel the Russian defence attache for spying for the Kremlin, the Home Secretary has said.

James Cleverly announced a fresh crackdown on Russian, including the closure of several diplomatic premises in the UK. He told MPs: "Today in conjunction with the Foreign Secretary, I am announcing a package of measures to make clear to Russia that we will not tolerate such apparent escalations.

"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 would respond with "conspiracy theories and hysteria" and accusations of Russophobia but the UK would not be swayed. He said: "This is not new and the British people and the British Government will not fall for it, and will not be taken for fools by Putin’s bots, trolls and lackeys. Russia’s explanation was totally inadequate. Our 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."

Elizabeth Baker