Russia Reduces EU Diplomatic Mission to 40 Personnel

The Federal Government of Russia reduced the size of its diplomatic mission to the European Union in Brussels, sending home approximately 20 diplomats. The reduction ensures the mission complies with a cap of 40 personnel, excluding the head of mission.

EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas ordered the cuts with a September 1 deadline, citing Russia's abuse of diplomatic power. Kallas specifically pointed to the deployment of alleged spies under diplomatic cover and the necessity of establishing closer parity with the EU's own mission in Moscow.

EU foreign affairs spokesman Christian Wigand confirmed that the Russian mission complied with the decision on time. Unlike previous diplomatic expulsions that triggered retaliatory measures, Russia has implemented these specific staff reductions without taking revenge on the EU mission in Moscow.