Espionage Tensions Rise as Russia Expels British Diplomat

Russia has expelled a British diplomat accused of being an undeclared intelligence officer, warning the UK against espionage activities on its soil. With the ongoing war in Ukraine, Russia and the West have exchanged accusations of increased espionage activity reminiscent of the Cold War era.

In a dramatic escalation of espionage tensions, Russia expelled a British diplomat, alleging the individual was an undeclared officer in Britain's intelligence services. The diplomat, a second secretary at the Moscow embassy, was accused by the FSB of working undercover for MI6. Moscow's hard stance signals potential diplomatic friction.

The British diplomat has been ordered to leave within two weeks, with the Russian foreign ministry summoning Britain's charge d'affaires, Danae Dholakia, to lodge a formal protest. Russia made it clear that it will not tolerate covert intelligence activities on its territory and issued a stark warning for London's response.

Amid the backdrop of the Ukraine conflict, both sides accuse each other of ramping up espionage efforts. Western intelligence chiefs claim Moscow's agencies have conducted cyber attacks, while Russia contends that Western services, including the CIA and MI6, are increasing their efforts to undermine Russian security.

(With inputs from agencies.)