Home Secretary James Cleverly has confirmed that further sanctions will be placed on Russia, adding that a Russian Defence Attache has also been expelled.
In a further move diplomatic protection status has been removed from Russian properties believed to have been used for intelligence purposes.
The “undeclared” Russian military intelligence officer will be expelled from the UK, Mr Cleverly said during a statement to the House of Commons.
He said: “Today in conjunction with the Foreign Secretary, I am announcing a package of measures to make clear to Russia that we will not tolerate such apparent escalations.
“I can tell the House that we will expel the Russian defence attache, who is an undeclared military intelligence officer.
“We will remove diplomatic premises status from several Russian-owned properties in the UK, including Seacox Heath house, a Russian-owned property in Sussex, and the trade and defence section in Highgate, which we believe have been used for intelligence purposes.
“We are imposing new restrictions on Russian diplomatic visas, including capping the length of time Russian diplomats can spend in the UK.”
Moscow will make accusations of Russophobia and spread conspiracy theories in response to the UK’s latest actions, James Cleverly has warned.
The Home Secretary said: “In the coming days we should expect accusations of Russophobia, conspiracy theories and hysteria from the Russian government.
“This is not new and the British people and the British Government will not fall for it, and will not be taken for fools by Putin’s bots, trolls and lackeys.
“Russia‘s explanation was totally inadequate. Our response will be resolute and firm.
“Our message to Russia is clear: stop this illegal war, withdraw your troops from Ukraine, cease this malign activity.”