UK expels Russian defense attache, imposes new restrictions on visas

A major package of measures to target and dismantle Russian intelligence gathering operations in the UK will be rolled out today, the Home Secretary has announced.

Today, the UK government will:

• expel the Russian defence attaché, an undeclared military intelligence officer
• remove diplomatic premises status from several Russian properties in the UK, including Seacox Heath – a Russia-owned property in Sussex – and the Trade and Defence Section in Highgate, which are believed to have been used for intelligence purposes
• impose new restrictions on Russian diplomatic visas, including capping the length of time Russian diplomats can spend in the UK