Russia's ambassador to the United Kingdom has left his post without a successor, a move confirmed by Moscow. This departure occurs amidst increased pressure over Russia's support for Ukraine and accusations from Moscow that London has worsened relations with Ukraine.
Questions have arisen regarding whether the Russian ambassador offered 'help' to Serbian President Vučić in the elections. The nature of this alleged offer and its implications are under scrutiny.
The Russian ambassador to Belgrade stated that Serbia is not sending weapons to Ukraine, asserting that any Serbian-made arms found there arrived through indirect routes. He emphasized that Belgrade has no intention of militarily supporting Ukraine.
Worshippers in Sofia, Bulgaria, interrupted a liturgy led by the Patriarch due to the presence of Russian Ambassador Eleonora Mitrofanova, chanting "This is not Moscow" and booing.
The Russian ambassador has expressed solidarity with former Italian football star Andrea Pirlo. The reason for this expression of support was not specified in the provided articles.
Czech politician Petr Macinka met with Russian Ambassador Anna Ponomarjovová and directly urged her to end the war in Ukraine, a rare diplomatic encounter since the conflict began.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić announced discussions with the Russian Ambassador in Belgrade, Aleksandar Bocan-Kharchenko, focusing on bilateral cooperation, particularly economic ties, and the political situation in the region and globally.
Russian Ambassador to Moldova, Oleg Ozerov, stated that Russia's commitment to withdraw troops from Transnistria is about 'intentions, not obligations,' in response to Chisinau's repeated demands.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and Russian Ambassador Alexander Bocan-Harchenko met to oppose attempts at revising historical facts. This marks another meeting between the two officials.
Azerbaijan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Russian Ambassador Mikhail Yevdokimov, where he was issued a strong protest and handed a diplomatic note in connection with a drone attack on a SOCAR…
Ghanaian President Mahama urged for stronger Ghana-Russia relations as he welcomed the new Russian Ambassador to Ghana. The call emphasizes a desire for enhanced cooperation between the two nations.
Russian Ambassador to Bulgaria, Eleonora Mitrofanova, stated in an interview that the new Bulgarian government is currently only verbally prepared to improve bilateral relations with Russia, despite President Rumen Radev's cautious calls for a return to better ties.
Russia's Ambassador to Bulgaria expressed gratitude for the swift issuance of hundreds of Bulgarian visas for Russian athletes and fans participating in a competition in Varna. The ambassador personally thanked Bulgarian colleagues at the embassy in Moscow for processing the visas outside official deadlines.
Finland has summoned the Russian ambassador to request clarification regarding an alleged military aircraft violation of its airspace. This incident comes as France states Russia is in a military, economic, and diplomatic stalemate due to the war in Ukraine.
Finland and Slovenia both summoned Russian diplomatic representatives to their respective foreign ministries. Finland summoned the Russian ambassador over threats, while Slovenia called in the Russian chargé d'affaires for talks.
A liveblog on the Ukraine war reports explosions in the Black Sea region, with Russia accusing Ukraine of attacks on Crimea. Ukraine's chief negotiator is in Berlin for talks, and Berlin has summoned the Russian ambassador.
The UN Secretary-General voiced deep concern over Russia's announced plans for systematic strikes on Kyiv, with Russian officials warning diplomats to evacuate. Meanwhile, the UK and Poland are set to sign a defense treaty amid escalating Russian threats and cyberattack warnings.
A Russian ambassador used a holiday event on May 24th to criticize sanctions imposed against Russia, making the remarks on May 22nd during a wreath-laying ceremony in Rome.
The Russian ambassador was reportedly doused with 'blood' in Warsaw, an incident that has prompted Slovak opposition parties to advocate for more radical measures against Russia than those taken by Poland.
Hungary's new foreign minister summoned Russia's ambassador to Budapest following a Russian drone attack on Ukraine's Transcarpathia region, signaling a potential shift in Hungarian foreign policy.
Hungary has summoned the Russian ambassador in Budapest after a recent drone attack occurred in Ukraine, signaling diplomatic disapproval of the ongoing conflict.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić is facing criticism for allegedly delaying election decisions to maintain public attention and for his statements regarding past political changes. Opposition parties and analysts are scrutinizing his political strategies and alliances, while Dačić has also sent messages to Vučić regarding party stability.
Krzysztof Tołwiński, a former deputy minister from Poland's PiS party, registered a public gathering for Russia's Victory Day, with his activists previously admitting to assisting the Russian ambassador in laying flowers at a monument.
Moldova's Foreign Minister Mihai Popșoi responded to threats from Russia's appointed ambassador Oleg Ozerov regarding the protection of Russian citizens in Transnistria, asserting that only Russia undermines Moldova's sovereignty and neutrality.
The Russian ambassador to Romania did not categorically deny that a drone that crashed in Galați on Saturday was of Russian origin. Romanian Foreign Minister Oana Ţoiu commented on the ambassador's reaction to the incident.
Italy has summoned Russia's ambassador after a Russian journalist criticized Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on state television, sparking a diplomatic dispute.
Italy summoned the Russian ambassador after a state TV host made derogatory remarks about Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, calling her an "idiot," "traitor," and "prostitute." The incident has caused diplomatic tension between the two countries.
Germany has summoned the Russian ambassador in Berlin following what it described as 'direct threats' made by Russia against German companies. Berlin firmly rejected Moscow's attempts at intimidation.
Oleg Ozerov, the agreed Russian Ambassador to Moldova, requested a meeting with former Gagauzia governor Evghenia Guțul in prison. The director of the National Penitentiary Administration, Alexandru Adam, confirmed the request was rejected.
Ana Brnabić, the Speaker of the National Assembly of Serbia, met with Alexander Botsan-Kharchenko, the Russian Ambassador to Serbia, to discuss bilateral relations.
Russia’s ambassador to Cyprus, Murat Zyazikov, refuted suggestions of Cyprus pursuing closer relations with NATO, describing the alliance as 'a relic of a bygone era' and noting 'clear calls' from politicians.
The Russian ambassador to Cyprus stated that EU sanctions have led to an annual revenue loss of over €1 billion for the Cypriot economy due to the lack of Russian tourists, prompting calls from Cypriot businesses for their return.
Italian Deputy Minister Edmondo Cirielli of the Brothers of Italy party met with the Russian ambassador, stating he acted on behalf of the government, which drew criticism from opposition leader Elly Schlein who warned it would distance Italy from the EU.
Italian Deputy Minister Cirielli confirmed his meeting with the Russian ambassador months ago, which the government was reportedly unaware of and which angered Prime Minister Meloni, leading to calls for his resignation from the Democratic Party.
Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár met with the Russian ambassador to discuss peaceful solutions and continued energy cooperation, including gas, oil, and nuclear fuel.
In response to a letter from Péter Magyar, the Russian ambassador to Hungary stated there is no point in scaring Hungarians with fictitious Russian threats, asserting that Russia respects Hungary's sovereignty unlike Brussels.
Russia has always been open to supplying crude oil to India, Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov said on Thursday, amid increasing concerns over spiralling prices of petroleum products in view of the West Asia crisis.
To the Russian ambassador’s residence in Kensington Park Gardens to talk to Andrei Kelin about the war in Ukraine and nuclear weapons and whether there is a Russian component to the Epstein scandal.
Vladimir Putin has appointed Georgy Michno, an employee of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as the new Russian ambassador to Poland, replacing Sergey Andreev.
Russian Ambassador to the UN Vasily Nebenzya condemned the military attacks by the US and Israel on Iran, calling them an act of armed aggression that escalates the situation and represents a betrayal of diplomacy.
Four years have passed since the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and there is no end in sight.
Russian Ambassador to “N”: Moscow is open for an equal and mutually beneficial dialogue - Η ΝΑΥ
Finland has issued a diplomatic note and summoned Russia’s ambassador after a Russian military reconnaissance aircraft allegedly entered Finnish airspace for approximately three minutes in the western Gulf of Finland.
Azerbaijan has issued warrants for the arrest of three Russian pundits, accusing them of 'hostile actions' against the country, and also summoned the Russian Ambassador Mikhail Evdokimov to the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry.
The Russian ambassador expresses anticipation for the re-establishment of normal diplomatic dialogue with Bulgaria, noting a change in rhetoric towards Russia.
A public incident in Sofia, Bulgaria, involving Russian Ambassador Mitrofanova being allegedly booed, has sparked heated debate and controversy over whether the event actually occurred.
Poland has summoned the Russian ambassador to protest a Russian missile incursion into its airspace, with a Kh-101 missile found on Polish territory. Concurrently, Ukraine reported an assassination attempt on one of its military commanders, which President Zelenskyy vowed to address.
Russia launched missile and drone attacks across Ukraine, hitting a supermarket in Chernihiv and Ukrainian port infrastructure, while also reportedly seeking more North Korean soldiers. Concurrently, Romanian forces intercepted and shot down multiple Russian drones that intruded into NATO airspace for the third consecutive day.
Russian Ambassador Dmitry Zikov stated that North Macedonia's entry into the 'Coalition of Volunteers' is perceived as an anti-Russian act, despite limited news coverage suggesting the visit was primarily for France's National Day celebrations.
Russia's appointed ambassador to Moldova, Oleg Ozerov, commented on rumors regarding the potential opening of a 'Russian House' in the Transnistrian region, stating it would require a separate intergovernmental agreement.
Austria's Foreign Ministry summoned the Russian ambassador following new findings that linked Russia to a significant cyberattack on Austrian ministries in 2020. The move signals a diplomatic protest regarding the incident.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić announced that he discussed bilateral relations, as well as regional and global issues, with Russian Ambassador Aleksandar Bocan-Harchenko.
Vyacheslav Gladkov, the former governor of Belgorod, has been nominated to serve as Russia's ambassador to Abkhazia. This move marks a new diplomatic role for Gladkov after his tenure in Belgorod.
The Russian ambassador to Rome reiterated accusations against the Italian presidential palace, the Quirinale, claiming it consistently blames Moscow for all problems. He stated that the Quirinale seeks to hold Russia responsible for various issues.
The Russian ambassador to the UK has been summoned by the Foreign Office following a drone crash into an apartment building in Romania. This incident has raised concerns and prompted diplomatic action.
Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár stated that summoning the Russian ambassador over a drone attack in Romania would not resolve anything, despite condemning the attack.
Albania's Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs summoned the Russian ambassador in Tirana following Kremlin threats of further strikes against Ukraine and intimidation directed at diplomats.
France, Belgium, and Estonia have summoned Russian ambassadors to their respective foreign ministries following Russia's recent threats against diplomats and massive strikes on Ukraine.
The new Russian ambassador to Slovakia sought meetings with opposition leaders Igor Matovič and Michal Šimečka in Bratislava, hoping for better mutual understanding, though photos showed other Slovak politicians present.
Igor Dodon, leader of the Party of Socialists and a Member of Parliament in Moldova, announced a new trip to Russia and shared that he met with the newly appointed Russian Ambassador Oleg Ozerov at the Russian Embassy in Chisinau to discuss Moldovan-Russian relations.
China has presented its first 'Outstanding Diplomatic Envoy Medal' to eight individuals, including a former Russian ambassador to China, recognizing their contributions to diplomacy.
Russia and Ukraine completed a significant prisoner exchange, with each side releasing 205 captured soldiers. This swap resulted in 410 prisoners of war being returned to their respective countries.
Ukraine suffered a massive Russian drone attack, reportedly involving 800 drones, which killed six and injured dozens. In response, Hungary's new Prime Minister, Peter Magyar, condemned the assault and summoned the Russian ambassador, signaling a potential shift in Budapest's stance towards Russia.
A former Italian ambassador to Uzbekistan has been arrested on suspicion of operating a scheme to sell Schengen visas to Russian citizens. He is accused of leading a network involved in the alleged forgery and sale of visas.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić met with the Russian Ambassador to Serbia, Alexander Botsan-Kharchenko, and handed him a letter addressed to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Moldovan Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu commented on statements made by Russian Ambassador Oleg Ozerov regarding drones in Vadul lui Voda, dismissing them as provocations and stating Ozerov does not deserve trust.
Mali's junta leader held a meeting with the Russian ambassador in the aftermath of recent attacks that the Kremlin has characterized as an attempted coup.
The Russian ambassador was summoned to the Romanian Foreign Ministry after drone fragments crashed in a residential area of Galati, damaging a power pole and a house.
The European Union approved a €90 billion loan package for Ukraine, following the lifting of vetoes by Hungary and Slovakia. This decision came ahead of a leaders' meeting and aims to accelerate Ukraine's full integration into the EU.
The European Union is considering strengthening its naval presence in the Middle East, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz, to ensure free passage through the vital waterway. Discussions include the willingness to deploy a fleet and the practicalities of such an operation.
Russia has reportedly identified European drone manufacturers and other entities as legitimate targets, and published a map of potential targets in Europe. This has led to diplomatic actions, including Czechia summoning the Russian ambassador to address the threats.
Reports indicate that Oleg Ozerov, Russia's appointed ambassador to Moldova, attempted to visit Yevgenia Gutsul, the Governor of Gagauzia who was sentenced to seven years in prison, according to the head of the National Prison Administration.
North Macedonian President Siljanovska-Davkova has received the credentials of the newly appointed Ambassador of the Russian Federation, expressing confidence that the ambassador's diplomatic activities will professionally represent Russian interests.
Gagauzia reportedly writes to Putin, a plan for Transnistria is leaked, the Russian ambassador faces an incident, and drones are reported over Moldova, alongside ongoing protests.
One civilian has been killed and two others injured in Russian attacks on Kherson Oblast on March 16, with a criminal proceeding launched following drone attacks and a massive airstrike.
Centre-left opposition Democratic Party (PD) leader Elly Schlein warned that if the Italian government reopens diplomatic channels with Russia, it will distance itself from the rest of the European Union. This comes amid a controversy over Deputy Foreign Minister Edmondo Cirielli's meeting with the Russian ambassador, which Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani dismissed as 'pointless'.
The concentration of NATO forces near Cyprus is contributing to tensions in an already volatile region rather than easing them, Russia’s Ambassador to Cyprus Murat Zyazikov said on Wednesday. His comments came as European warships converged on the Eastern Mediterranean following the drone strike on the British base at Akrotiri on 2 March. France redirected […]
A daily news podcast from HVG covers various Hungarian and international topics, including Péter Magyar's dispute with the Russian ambassador, the reintroduction of fuel price caps, and an Iranian attack on Israel.
Russian Ambassador Yevgeny Stanislavov stated that Russia respects Hungary's sovereignty, responding to Péter Magyar and suggesting that Hungary is unfairly pressured by the European Union.
Oleg Ozerov, the newly appointed Russian ambassador to Moldova, visited the Moldovan Ministry of Foreign Affairs on March 4 and requested a meeting with its representatives.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has appointed Georgy Mikhna as the new ambassador of Russia to Poland, according to a decree published on the Kremlin's official legal acts portal.
Ion Guzun, a member of Moldova's Supreme Council of Magistracy, explained his abstention from voting on the pardon of Nikolai Shepel in 2022, citing his previous statements regarding the Russian ambassador to Moldova.
Sergey Vadimovich Andreev, the new Russian ambassador to Slovakia, is described as a diplomat with 45 years of experience, but a detailed look at his career reveals him to be a propagandist and provocateur.
Finland has summoned the Russian ambassador to explain a suspected violation of its airspace by a Russian reconnaissance aircraft. Finnish authorities are investigating the alleged incursion near the NATO border.
The Russian Ambassador to Serbia addressed the National Assembly, stating that Russia is doing everything possible to prevent the ethnic cleansing of Serbs in Kosovo. This statement reiterates Russia's commitment to protecting the Serbian population in the region.
Moldova has recalled its ambassador from Russia after a suspected Russian drone crashed near the Moldovan-Ukrainian border, with President Sandu condemning the airspace violation.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has awarded Oleg Ozerov, the newly appointed Russian ambassador to Moldova, the Order of Alexander Nevsky for his diligent diplomatic service and contribution to Russia's foreign policy.
Romania has expelled a Russian diplomat following multiple incidents where suspected Russian drones violated its airspace, prompting strong condemnation from Bucharest and solidarity from Poland. Romanian officials have confirmed the drones' Russian origin and are discussing the security implications with US counterparts.
The Ghana-Russia Center for Commerce and Relations has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation and trade ties between Ghana and the Russian Federation following a meeting with the new Russian Ambassador to Ghana.
Days after the German Foreign Minister's visit, Russia's ambassador has criticized the Norwegian city of Bodø, accusing it of trying to create unrest due to NATO's presence.
Russia's ambassador to Norway, Nikolaj Kortsjunov, stated that Norway is increasing tensions and taking a serious risk by acquiring long-range weapons and supporting France's nuclear weapons initiative.
The European Union is set to implement measures restricting children's access to social media platforms. Concurrently, the EU, along with the UK, has expanded sanctions against Russia over cyberattacks, surveillance, and human rights abuses.
The EU has sanctioned Russian military intelligence officers and cybercriminals, while Ukraine's air defense remains a key focus for allies. This comes as Ukrainian forces report striking Russian naval vessels and radar systems.
Azerbaijan has summoned the Russian ambassador after Russian strikes in Ukraine damaged a SOCAR station, following previous damage to the Azerbaijani Embassy in Kyiv and other SOCAR facilities.
Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov stated that Russia would never allow China to affect its ties with India, emphasizing that India remains a high priority in Russia's foreign policy.
Semyon Aralov, the first Soviet Russian ambassador to Ankara, recorded shocking details in his memoirs about the massacres of Greeks caused by Kemalists in the Pontus region.
The European Union is reportedly considering a temporary suspension of the price cap adjustment mechanism for Russian oil. This move comes amidst rising oil prices, potentially influenced by the broader conflict in the Middle East and specifically a war involving Iran.
Romania has declared the Russian consul in Constanța persona non grata and announced the closure of the Russian consulate after a Russian drone crashed into an apartment block in Galați, injuring two people. The incident has drawn strong condemnation from NATO allies and prompted accusations of irresponsibility against political leaders attempting to excuse Russia.
Moldovan Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu criticized the visit of Russia's appointed ambassador to Gagauzia, Oleg Ozerov, calling it an attempt to interfere in the autonomous region's elections.
Romania's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reacted strongly to Moscow's threats regarding diplomats in Kyiv, stating that they will not be intimidated. The Russian ambassador has been summoned in response to these demands for embassy evacuations.
The Russian ambassador to Poland, Georgiy Michno, was summoned to the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and presented with a strong demand to immediately cease Russia's illegal and unjustified aggression against Ukraine.
Moldova's Liberal Party is demanding the expulsion of Russian Ambassador Oleg Ozerov following his statements regarding alleged 'linguistic pressure' on the Russian-speaking population of Transnistria. The party emphasized that the diplomat's words constitute 'interference in internal affairs.'
The Russian ambassador to Norway has threatened Norway with fishing penalties following sanctions against Russian fishing companies, a threat which the Norwegian Minister of Fisheries has dismissed.
Hungarian politician Péter Magyar has made significant statements regarding a clemency scandal, alleging that the former head of state was pressured and that the justice minister had negatively recommended the clemency request. He also discussed Hungary's ongoing negotiations with the European Commission concerning EU funds and conditions for Ukraine's accession.
Hungary's new foreign minister, Orbán Anita, summoned the Russian ambassador the day after taking office, a significant departure from her predecessor Szijjártó's practice, who rarely did so, especially not since the war began.
Kyiv declared a day of mourning following a series of large-scale Russian missile and drone attacks that killed multiple people and caused widespread damage. Ukrainian forces reported intercepting many projectiles while also launching counter-strikes.
Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico in Moscow, where Putin claimed the war in Ukraine is nearing its end and proposed new peace talks, insisting they must take place in the Russian capital. The meeting marked a notable diplomatic engagement between Russia and an EU member state.
The article describes a letter from "Sisolini" to "Vlado" (Putin), referencing past interactions and a recent meeting with the Russian ambassador in Serbia. The letter expresses hope for future engagements between the two.
Russia's new Ambassador to North Macedonia, Zykov, stated that the Macedonian case demonstrates the politicized nature of EU integration, despite ongoing working contacts with some Macedonian officials.
Russian Ambassador to Belgrade, Aleksandar Bocan Harchenko, stated that the European Union is increasing pressure on Serbia to choose between aligning with the EU or Russia. He predicts that this pressure will intensify.
Russia's Ambassador to Bucharest, Vladimir Lipaev, has contradicted Romanian official Oana Țoiu regarding a drone that fell in Galați, questioning the haste with which it was destroyed. He rejected "i
Romania discovered wreckage from a second drone on its territory, believed to be Russian, following an overnight attack on Ukraine. The country subsequently summoned the Russian ambassador to Bucharest to address the incident.
Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov gave a wide-ranging interview to NDTV, describing bilateral relations as "very consistent" and "comprehensive," and touching upon topics like Su-57 jets and US-Iran relations.
The European Union moved to unlock a €90 billion loan for Ukraine after Hungary's Viktor Orbán lifted his veto, marking a significant development in EU financial aid to Kyiv.
A Russian drone reportedly entered Romanian airspace, triggering an air raid alert and drawing strong condemnation from Romanian authorities. This incident marks another violation of NATO member territory amidst ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine.
Russian Ambassador Alexander Bocan-Kharchenko held a meeting with Miloš Vučević at the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) headquarters in Belgrade. The details of their discussion were not immediately disclosed.
Economist Šoškić suggests markets may cease reacting to Trump's unfounded statements, while also noting the possibility of a global US-Russia agreement and processes that could 'relativize or relax the situation around NIS'. The Russian Ambassador to Serbia has now expressed belief that Gazprom will soon finalize talks with partners regarding the sale of its stake in NIS.
The trial of Johannes Peterlik is nearing its conclusion, with focus on his meeting with the Russian ambassador, alleged unauthorized request for a classified Skripal report, and accusations of leaking top-secret reports and the Novichok formula, which Peterlik denies.
The Russian Ambassador to Romania, Vladimir Lipaev, stated that Western politicians have forgotten that the atomic bomb is not a toy but a huge responsibility, expressing regret over the current state of affairs.
(ANSA) - ROME, MAR 16 - A row over Deputy Foreign Minister Edmondo Cirielli meeting Russian Ambassador Aleksej Vladimirovic Paramonov is "pointless" since Italy has not broken off ties with Moscow, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said Monday.
The controversy over Cirielli is "a pointless controversy" because the deputy minister "received an ambassador accredited to the Italian Republic," Tajani said in Brussels.
"We have not severed diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation." The meeti...
Slovenia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Russian ambassador to condemn recent Russian attacks on energy infrastructure and residential areas in Ukraine, which resulted in numerous civilian casualties.
The Russian Ambassador responded to a letter from Magyar Péter, stating that Russia respects Hungary's sovereignty and does not interfere in its internal affairs, unlike Brussels. He advised against scaring Hungarians with imaginary Russian threats.
The Russian Ambassador to Belgrade, Aleksandar Bocan-Harchenko, stated today that if Serbia were to impose sanctions on Russia, "sanctions themselves would...
Sergei Andreyev, the new Russian ambassador to Slovakia, criticized the West and warned of a harsh response to security threats during an anniversary of liberation event in Krupina, where some attendees turned their backs on him.
The Russian Ambassador to Bulgaria criticized the country's pre-election campaign before it even began, stating that politicians are trying to please their patrons, which intensifies negativity towards Russia.
Kremlin Mocks European 'Illusions' For Wanting Own Nuclear Umbrella
Currently France and Britain are in talks to potentially extend their nuclear arsenals to protect Europe as a defense 'umbrella' - at a moment some officials have questioned the United States commitment to leading NATO.
Politico wrote in the aftermath of the Munich Security Conference, "Multiple European countries are publicly backing talks on a homegrown nuclear deterrent to complement American atomic weapons following an erosion of trust in a Donald Trump-led US."
Russian Ambassador to the UK Andrey Kelin has issued the Kremlin's reaction to these latest developments, asserting that the British ‘nuclear umbrella’ will fail to provide extra security to other NATO members.
Russian Ambassador to the UK Andrey Kelin, via Al Jazeera screenshot.
The diplomat's words were captured in an interview with Russian newspaper Izvestia on Tuesday. Kelin described that it is "obvious that the British 'nuclear umbrella' will not be able to provide any additional material security guarantees" to Europe.
Moscow meanwhile continues to closely monitor the moves by "states pursuing an overtly anti-Russian policy" - he emphasized.
"The possibility of the expansion of nuclear safeguards will be taken into account in our military planning as well as in further discussions of the strategic stability issues," the ambassador added.
Kelin then took a swipe at Britain's hawkish stance in the context of the Ukraine war: "The strengthening of such potential apparently instills in London an illusory hope of leadership in ensuring European security," he said.
Moscow's growing concerns over British policy is in part related to plans to purchase a dozen F-35 fighter jets from the US, capable of carrying missiles tipped with nuclear warheads.
Additionally, when the tiny but outspoken Baltic states - directly on Russia's doorstep - try to tout NATO 'nuclear deterrent' talking points, it seems natural that Moscow would be extremely concerned:
Estonia isn’t ruling out joining early-stage talks on a common nuclear deterrent in Europe, Deputy Defense Minister Tuuli Duneton said in an interview. "We are always open to discuss" with partners, she said, while emphasizing the U.S. was still "committed to providing nuclear deterrence for allied nations."
Latvia’s Prime Minister Evika Siliņa echoed that. "Nuclear deterrence can give us new opportunities. Why not?" she said, while cautioning that any steps would have to be in compliance with "our international commitments."
NATO top leadership has still signaled no change in direction on the conventional US nuclear umbrella, however.
The United States nuclear umbrella, which has protected allies and cut down on the spread of nuclear weapons, is the "ultimate guarantor of freedom" in Europe, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte says.
"The ultimate guarantor is the nuclear umbrella from the United States," Rutte… pic.twitter.com/8GCU5oc4O6
February 17, 2026
In the backdrop is the fact that that the landmark New START nuclear treaty between Washington and Moscow has ceased to exist as of this month. Russia is offering that it won't expand its arsenal so long as the US does the same. But this is still dangerous, uncharted territory.
Tyler Durden
Wed, 02/18/2026 - 04:15