Russia Recalls Ambassador Andrey Kelin from London Amid Record Low Diplomatic Relations
Russia has officially recalled its ambassador to the United Kingdom, Andrey Kelin, as bilateral relations plummet to what Moscow describes as an unprecedented low, according to Agence France-Presse and TASS. The recall took place on July 21, according to the Sunday edition of the British newspaper The Times, which reported that the Russian diplomatic mission in London is now being managed by a chargé d’affaires with no immediate successor named for Kelin.
A spokesperson for the Russian embassy, cited by the Sunday Times, accused the United Kingdom of choosing the path of confrontation with Russia on the background of British aid to Ukraine. According to AFP, London is one of the largest supporters of Ukraine, having allocated nearly 25 billion British pounds to Kyiv, including military assistance amounting to 16 billion pounds since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.
Moscow Denies Intentional Downgrade While Blaming London for Bilateral Freeze
While the Russian embassy confirmed the termination of Ambassador Kelin’s mission, it explained that “nothing gives reason to believe that the Russian side intended to lower the level of diplomatic relations.” Instead, the diplomatic representation emphasized that “the deterioration of Russian-British relations in all spheres to an unprecedentedly low level is entirely the fault of London.”
The British Ministry of Foreign Affairs declined to comment on the case, pointing out only that “London has its own embassy and ambassador in Moscow, through which it can maintain diplomatic communication and state its concerns to the Russian government.” “We continue to support Ukraine, which has the right to defend itself against Russia’s illegal and uninvited invasion,” the British department added.
Escalating Tensions Over Long-Range Drone Strikes
Diplomatic friction between London and Moscow intensified further following reports that Ukrainian armed forces are utilizing British drones to conduct strikes deep inside Russian territory. On Tuesday, the Russian embassy threatened London with consequences following information that Ukrainian armed forces are using British drones to strike deep into Russian territory.
Did you know?
Since the escalation of the conflict in 2022, the United Kingdom has committed substantial support to Ukraine, making London one of Kyiv’s primary military backers among Western allies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the Russian ambassador recalled from London?
Russia recalled its ambassador to the United Kingdom, Andrey Kelin, on July 21, according to reports from The Times and verified by AFP and TASS.
Who is currently running the Russian embassy in London?
Following the departure of Ambassador Kelin, the Russian diplomatic mission is being operated by a chargé d’affaires, as no new ambassador has been appointed to the post.
What is the UK Foreign Office’s position on the diplomatic freeze?
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office stated that it maintains its embassy and ambassador in Moscow for ongoing diplomatic communication, while reiterating its continued support for Ukraine.
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