In a direct response to US sanctions over election interference and the SolarWinds hack, Moscow expels diplomats and places restrictions on US NGOs.
In a significant escalation, Russia has expelled 10 US diplomats in retaliation for sanctions imposed by the Biden administration. The sanctions, targeting Russian officials and the diplomatic mission, were a response to Moscow’s alleged interference in US elections and its role in the SolarWinds cyberattack.
The Russian foreign ministry also barred eight US officials, including key figures from the FBI, NSA, and Homeland Security, from entering the country. Notably, both current and former high-ranking officials such as Susan Rice and John Bolton were placed on the banned list.
In a further diplomatic standoff, Russia recommended that the US recall its ambassador, John Sullivan, echoing the move it made last month after President Biden referred to Vladimir Putin as a “killer.” This series of actions marks a sharp deterioration in US-Russia relations, adding to ongoing tensions between the two nations.
