Russia has intensified its campaign of harassment against British diplomats, prompting the United Kingdom to expel a Russian diplomat and their spouse. This action follows the expulsion of two British diplomats by Russia, highlighting the growing diplomatic tensions between the two nations. In a bid to address these escalating conflicts, US envoy Steve Witkoff is set to travel to Moscow this week for talks on a potential Ukraine ceasefire.
The White House confirmed that US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz engaged in discussions with his Russian counterpart earlier today. These talks aim to pave the way for Witkoff’s upcoming visit, where diplomatic efforts will focus on negotiating peace in the region. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited troops involved in the counteroffensive in the Kursk region on Wednesday, further emphasizing the ongoing military activities.
In London, Britain's Defence Secretary John Healey has called upon President Putin to accept a ceasefire and initiate negotiations. He highlighted the importance of resolving the conflict peacefully, stating:
“I say to President Putin, over to you now. You say you want to talk. Prove it. Accept the ceasefire, start negotiations and end the war.” – John Healey
Despite these diplomatic efforts, Russia shows little regard for the potential consequences of its actions. John Healey expressed concern over Russia's attempts to push the UK embassy in Moscow towards closure, warning of the dangerous escalatory impact this could have.
“It is clear that the Russian state is actively seeking to drive the British embassy in Moscow towards closure and has no regard for the dangerous escalatory impact of this,” – John Healey
In response to such provocations, a senior Foreign Office official summoned Russian Ambassador Andrey Kelin to communicate that the UK will not tolerate intimidation of its embassy staff. The UK is accelerating efforts to form a "coalition of the willing" to provide security guarantees to Ukraine if a ceasefire is reached. Healey emphasized Britain's commitment to strengthening NATO and supporting Ukraine's sovereignty.
“We are doing this work together, we are cooperating closely with partner nations, we are looking to build a coalition of the willing from Europe and beyond, and from today we are accelerating that work.” – John Healey
On the ground in Kursk, Ukraine's top army commander Oleksandr Syrsky affirmed that Ukrainian troops will continue their fight as long as necessary. His priority remains safeguarding Ukrainian soldiers' lives through strategic maneuvers.
“In the most difficult situation, my priority has been and remains saving the lives of Ukrainian soldiers. To this end, the units of the defence forces, if necessary, manoeuvre to more favourable positions.” – Oleksandr Syrsky
Russia's Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov reported capturing approximately 430 Ukrainian soldiers in Kursk. President Putin declared that these captured fighters should be treated as terrorists according to Russian law.
Amidst these developments, Britain’s Defence Secretary John Healey asserted that peace and stability in Europe would be achieved through strengthening NATO alliances and standing by Ukraine. He stressed that the pressure is mounting on President Putin to engage in meaningful dialogue.
“Make no mistake, the pressure is now on Putin,” – John Healey
As diplomatic channels remain open, US envoy Steve Witkoff prepares for his visit to Moscow. Karoline Leavitt confirmed his travel plans, underscoring the urgency of these high-stakes negotiations.
“Mr Witkoff is travelling to Moscow later this week,” – Karoline Leavitt