Moscow responded to sanctions because of Navalny

The Russian Foreign Ministry announced the imposition of sanctions against seven "representatives of the UK, who are closely involved in anti-Russian activities." In accordance with restrictive measures, they are denied entry into the country.

The measures were a response to restrictions introduced in August 2021 by London. Then Britain added seven FSB officers to the sanctions list, as it considered them involved in the poisoning of opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

The Russian Foreign Ministry said that the UK's actions confirm London's intentions to continue following a destructive course in bilateral affairs.

“In response to the unfriendly actions of London and on the basis of the principle of reciprocity, a decision was made to impose personal sanctions on a proportionate number of representatives of the UK,” the agency said in a comment.