Italy Expels 2 Russian Embassy Employees for Spying

The Italian government has decided to expel two military attaches at the Russia n Embassy in Italy who were allegedly involved in espionage activities, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said on Thursday. Earlier this week, two people were arrested on charges of passing classified information to an alleged Russia n agent. Prosecutors said the main suspect was a former officer of Italy's Carabinieri police force. Five other individuals are also under investigation. Tajani said on X that the two Russia n officials must leave Rome within three days. He said Moscow continued to employ "hybrid tools" against Italy and the West, describing this as "serious and unacceptable interference" that threatens national security. Russia 's Foreign Ministry said it would respond to Italy's expulsion of the two officials. A Message from The Moscow Times: Dear readers, We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent." These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia. We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help . Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $ 2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact. By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us. Once Monthly Annual Continue Not ready to support today? Remind me later .