Russia accused two British diplomats of spying on Monday and gave them two weeks to leave the country, maintaining the downward trajectory of diplomatic relations with Europe even as it negotiates to restore ties with the United States.

The Trump administration is negotiating the return of more Russian diplomats to the United States. Some are likely to be spies.

Russia expels British diplomat and spouse of another days after Moscow spies convicted in London court - The timing of the expulsions raises suspicions of a tit-for-tat move by the Kremlin

Moscow has accused two British diplomats of spying and ordered their expulsion within a fortnight, further straining relations with Europe even as discussions to mend ties with the United States continue.

A representative of the British embassy has also been summoned over the case, Russia's foreign ministry said on Monday. In the past year alone, there have been seven British diplo