Russia withdraws ambassador from UK, warns Britain will face 'consequences'

Published Aug 23, 10:51 AM UTC

Russia has withdrawn its ambassador to the UK, Andrei Kelin, who left his post on July 21 after seven years, with no replacement submitted to the Foreign Office, sparking fears of a diplomatic breakdown. The move follows Russian outrage over the confirmed use of British drones by Ukraine to strike targets deep inside Russia. The Russian embassy in London warned Britain would face 'consequences,' while UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham reaffirmed full support for Ukraine, stating the UK is not a 'fair weather friend.' Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov escalated rhetoric, warning that direct British involvement in strikes could be considered participation in the war with all consequences. The Kremlin has previously threatened to downgrade diplomatic relations with the UK over its support for Ukraine since the 2022 invasion.