Russia Orders Closure of British Council Office in Diplomatic Retaliation

Russia has mandated the shutdown of the British Council's operations within its borders, a direct response to Britain's expulsion of 23 Russian diplomats. This diplomatic action stems from the poisoning incident involving former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia, which the UK government attributes to Russian intelligence services with high confidence. In addition to terminating cultural relations, Moscow has also demanded the departure of 23 British diplomats. The British Council expressed deep disappointment, emphasizing the critical importance of maintaining cultural and educational exchanges during periods of political strain. Sergei Skripal and Yulia Skripal continue to receive hospital treatment following the nerve agent attack.