Moscow says ambassador to UK no longer in post

AI-summarized · Neutrality-checked

The Russian embassy in London confirmed on Aug 23 that it no longer has an ambassador in post following the departure of Andrei Kelin on July 21. Moscow officials stated that the diplomatic change did not imply an intent to downgrade relations, though they blamed London for an unprecedented deterioration in bilateral ties. The development occurred amidst heightened tensions, as the Russian embassy accused Britain of escalating the conflict by supplying drones used in strikes deep inside Russian territory. Britain, which has committed approximately £25 billion in support to Ukraine since 2022, maintained that the appointment of an ambassador is a matter for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Consequences

The lack of an appointed successor for the ambassadorial post leaves a vacancy that complicates direct diplomatic communication between Moscow and London. This shift reflects Russia's ongoing strategy of signaling severe displeasure regarding Britain’s military support for Ukraine without officially severing diplomatic ties.

Sources

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