Germany, France, and Lithuania Expel Russian Diplomats

Published 05 Apr.2022 07:48(KST)

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] Germany, France, and Lithuania decided on the 4th (local time) to expel Russian ambassadors stationed in their countries in response to Russia's war crimes.

According to The Wall Street Journal, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock announced on the day, "We consider a significant number of Russian diplomats who oppose freedom and social harmony as 'persona non grata' (diplomatic undesirables)," and declared the expulsion of 40 Russian diplomats.

Russian diplomats stationed in Germany must leave within five days. Minister Baerbock raised her voice, saying, "They also pose a threat to Ukrainian refugees in Germany."

France also decided to expel 35 Russian diplomats. A spokesperson for the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, "Our top priority is to ensure the security of France and Europe," and added, "We have decided to expel several Russian diplomats who engage in activities against France's security interests."

Lithuania decided to expel the Russian ambassador stationed in its country and also to withdraw its ambassador from Russia.

Gabrielius Landsbergis, Lithuanian Foreign Minister, told reporters on the day, "In response to Russia's military invasion of Ukraine and the atrocities committed by Russian troops, the Lithuanian government has decided to downgrade its diplomatic delegation." Additionally, the Russian consulate located in Klaipeda, a port city where 20% of the local population is of Russian descent, will be closed.

Minister Landsbergis said, "What we saw in Bucha, Ukraine, where civilian massacres occurred, might only be the beginning," urging European Union (EU) and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member countries to take similar measures.