Moscow has accused Britain of obstructing diplomatic progress in Ukraine, fueling a fresh round of hostilities between the two nations. Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) claims the UK is working to prevent peace discussions between Washington and Moscow, fearing it could disrupt Britain’s broader geopolitical agenda.
The accusations were followed by the expulsion of two British diplomats from Russia, with authorities alleging they engaged in intelligence operations while under diplomatic cover. The Federal Security Service (FSB) claimed the individuals deliberately misrepresented themselves, prompting their removal. Britain, in turn, revoked the accreditation of a Russian diplomat, dismissing Moscow’s claims as “malicious” and politically motivated.
Alongside the diplomatic retaliation, Russia escalated its criticism of Britain, reviving the term “Perfidious Albion” to paint the UK as a long-standing manipulator in world affairs. The SVR drew parallels between Britain’s current actions and its involvement in previous global conflicts, suggesting London is once again working to destabilize international relations while remaining insulated from direct consequences.
British officials rejected the claims, accusing Russia of pushing a misinformation campaign to divert attention from its military actions in Ukraine. Liberal Democrat MP Calum Miller dismissed Moscow’s accusations as a Kremlin strategy to rewrite history in its favor.
Concerns over Russian espionage have grown in Britain, with authorities uncovering a suspected spy network linked to Moscow. British intelligence services recently disrupted a ring accused of targeting government officials and institutions, adding to mounting tensions between the two nations.
Amid the diplomatic standoff, U.S., Russian, and Ukrainian representatives continue discussions in Saudi Arabia in an attempt to ease hostilities and find a potential resolution to the war.
