The UK has been criticized by the Kremlin for its “hysterical” behavior, with a list of 21 British figures labeled as the most disliked by Russia. This move, termed a “stop list” by Russian authorities, is seen as an effort to counter what they perceive as attempts to vilify their nation.
The tension escalated following the UK’s imposition of economic sanctions and prohibitions against several Russian oligarchs and diplomats in response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine since 2022. The Kremlin condemned the UK for allegedly fabricating negative narratives to diminish Russia’s global influence and for supporting Ukraine with weapons.
In a statement addressing “Russophobia”, a Russian spokesperson accused the UK of persistently pursuing anti-Russian policies aimed at undermining Russian interests. The list comprises 21 British politicians, including members from various political parties and the House of Lords, accused by the Kremlin of making hostile comments about Russia and its leader, Putin.
The spokesperson further criticized UK parliament members for their aggressive rhetoric and baseless accusations, suggesting that such actions hinder constructive dialogue with Russia. The UK has frozen Russian assets worth £25 billion and sanctioned over 2,000 individuals linked to the Kremlin and Putin since 2022.
Among the banned British politicians are representatives from different political parties, including Labour, Liberal Democrats, DUP, and SNP members. This recent move adds to previous instances where the Kremlin has barred British politicians, reflecting the escalating tensions between the two countries. Figures like Angela Rayner, Yvette Cooper, Rachel Reeves, Jonathan Reynolds, and Ed Miliband were previously included in a ban list issued by the Russian foreign affairs ministry in November 2024.