UK Takes Action Against Russia’s “Reckless and Dangerous Activities” in Europe

The United Kingdom has taken a series of measures against Russia in response to what Home Secretary James Cleverly called “reckless and dangerous activities” by the Russian government across Europe. These actions include expelling Russia’s defense attaché, who has been accused of being an undeclared military intelligence officer, and revoking the diplomatic status of several Russian-owned properties due to their alleged use for intelligence purposes. New restrictions will also be imposed on Russian diplomatic visas and visits. In a statement, the Ministry of Defense warned Russia that “our message to Russia is clear: Stop this illegal war, withdraw your troops from Ukraine, cease this malign activity.” The U.K. has previously accused Russian agents of cyberespionage operations and leaking sensitive information to serve Russian interests, and has sanctioned hundreds of wealthy Russians following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. As these measures were announced, there were warnings that Russia might respond with accusations of Russophobia, conspiracy theories, and hysteria. However, Cleverly urged Britons not to fall for such tactics, stating, “the British people and the British government will not be taken for fools by Putin’s bots, trolls and lackeys.”