Russia has declared two British diplomats “personae non gratae” and ordered their expulsion, escalating diplomatic tensions amid accusations of espionage. The Federal Security Service (FSB) claimed the diplomats, identified as second secretary Alkesh Odedra and political department official Michael Skinner, were involved in “unreported intelligence activities” under diplomatic cover.
The Russian Foreign Ministry stated the pair must leave within two weeks, accusing them of “providing false information” and conducting “disruptive operations.” A British embassy representative was summoned to receive the decision, with Moscow emphasizing the expulsion followed “counterintelligence operations.”
While the UK has yet to formally respond, analysts suggest the move could strain bilateral relations further amid existing geopolitical friction. The FSB’s rare public disclosure underscores heightened security sensitivities in Russia.
