Official announcements from the UK Foreign Office or major news outlets

Russia Expels Diplomat Edward Wilkes for Espionage, Bans 30 UK Officials; UK Denies Allegations

Nov 26, 2024, 03:44 PM

Russia has expelled a British diplomat, Edward Pryor Wilkes, accusing him of espionage and engaging in activities threatening Russia's security. Wilkes, the Second Secretary of the Political Department at the British Embassy in Moscow, allegedly provided false information upon entry and conducted intelligence and subversive work, according to Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB). The FSB claimed that Wilkes was sent to Moscow to replace one of six British diplomats expelled in August over similar spying accusations. In response, the British Ambassador to Russia, Nigel Casey, was summoned to the Russian Foreign Ministry, where a strong protest was lodged. Casey refused to comment upon leaving the ministry. The UK government has denied the espionage allegations, with a Downing Street spokesman stating, 'We refute these allegations. They're baseless. We're now considering our response.' Further escalating tensions, Russia announced sanctions against 30 British citizens, including 15 Cabinet ministers and Labour MPs, accusing them of anti-Russian activities. Those banned from entering Russia include Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, Labour officials Rachel Reeves, Yvette Cooper, and Ed Miliband. The UK Foreign Office spokesperson said that Russia has made similar unfounded accusations in the past and that the UK would respond in due course.