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NATO Expels Seven Russian Diplomats, Cuts Size of Mission

More than 140 Russian officials have been kicked out across the Western world.

The Russian diplomat is fast becoming an endangered species after NATO joined over 25 Western governments by kicking out Russian representatives as punishment for the Kremlin’s suspected involvement in the nerve-agent attack against a former spy in Britain. More than 140 Russian diplomats have been ordered to return to Moscow by governments across the Western world over the past week, and NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said Tuesday that NATO would kick out seven diplomats and limit the size of Russia’s mission to 20, down from 30. “This sends a clear message to Russia that there are costs and consequences for its unacceptable and dangerous pattern of behavior,” said Stoltenberg. “It follows Russia’s lack of constructive response to what happened in Salisbury. Our actions reflect the serious security concerns expressed by all allies, and are part of the coordinated international effort to respond to Russia’s behavior. They are proportionate, and in line with our legal obligations.”