Moscow has imposed entry bans on 21 British parliamentarians in what it describes as a retaliatory move against the UK’s foreign policy stance.
The Russian Foreign Ministry announced the sanctions Wednesday, citing Britain’s military support for Ukraine and alleged efforts to damage Russia’s international standing.
The newly blacklisted officials, whose names were not immediately disclosed, join hundreds of Western politicians already barred from Russian territory since the Ukraine conflict began. A ministry statement accused London of pursuing “open confrontation” through arms deliveries to Kyiv and what it called fabricated anti-Russian narratives.
This development marks the latest escalation in deteriorating UK-Russia relations, which have remained strained since Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. British parliamentarians have consistently supported tough measures against Russia, including asset freezes, trade restrictions, and military aid for Ukrainian forces.
Analysts view the move as largely symbolic, given existing travel restrictions and the unlikelihood of affected lawmakers seeking entry to Russia. However, it underscores Moscow’s continued willingness to employ diplomatic retaliation against critics. The Foreign Ministry warned of further unspecified measures should Britain maintain its current policies.
The sanctions come as Western nations prepare for next month’s G7 summit, where continued support for Ukraine is expected to dominate discussions. UK officials have yet to formally respond, though Downing Street has previously dismissed similar Russian actions as attempts to divert attention from battlefield setbacks in Ukraine.
