Relations between Russia and the United Kingdom have come under renewed strain after Moscow withdrew its ambassador from London, leaving the Russian embassy without a permanent ambassador as disagreements over Britain's support for Ukraine continue to deepen.
Andrey Kelin, who had served as Russia's ambassador to the UK for more than seven years, left his post on July 21. Russia has not announced a replacement, meaning its diplomatic mission in London is currently being led by a chargé d'affaires rather than a full ambassador.
The move comes at a particularly difficult point in relations between Moscow and London. Britain has remained one of Ukraine's prominent supporters since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022, providing military assistance and publicly backing Kyiv's right to defend itself.
Moscow has increasingly criticised Britain's position, accusing London of taking what Russian officials describe as a confrontational approach. The Russian embassy in London said bilateral relations had deteriorated significantly and blamed British policy for the worsening relationship. At the same time, the embassy has denied that Moscow is formally seeking to downgrade diplomatic relations with Britain.
The ambassador's withdrawal follows fresh friction over military assistance to Ukraine. Russia recently warned Britain of possible consequences after reports emerged that British-supplied drones were being used by Ukrainian forces in attacks against targets inside Russia. British officials, however, have continued to defend their support for Ukraine.
The absence of a Russian ambassador could make already difficult communication between Moscow and London even more complicated. Ambassadors play an important role in maintaining diplomatic channels, particularly during periods of military confrontation and political disagreement.
For Britain, the development is unlikely to change its broader approach to the war. British officials have repeatedly maintained that Ukraine has the right to defend itself and that continued military assistance remains necessary.
For Russia, leaving the ambassadorial position vacant sends a strong political signal without formally breaking diplomatic relations. It also reflects how far relations between the two countries have deteriorated since the beginning of the war in Ukraine.
Whether Moscow eventually appoints a new ambassador will be closely watched. A prolonged vacancy could reinforce concerns that diplomatic relations have entered a new and more difficult phase, even if neither side is currently seeking a complete diplomatic break.
For now, the withdrawal represents another visible sign of the widening divide between Moscow and London, with Britain's support for Ukraine remaining one of the central sources of disagreement.