Croatia: Authorities order departure of 18 Russian diplomats and six embassy staffers as of April 11 due to the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

Event

As of April 11, Croatian authorities have ordered 18 Russian diplomats and six administrative staffers at the Russian Embassy in Zagreb to leave the country due to Russia's military offensive against Ukraine. This decision will reportedly reduce the number of diplomatic and administrative staff at the Russian Embassy in Zagreb to the level of staffing currently in place at the Croatian Embassy in Moscow. At the same time, the Croatian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine and once again appealed to Russia to cease all military activities in the country and withdraw its troops.

Consequent disruptions to consular services are possible at the Russian Embassy in Zagreb. Moscow may take retaliatory diplomatic actions over the short term, possibly resulting in a further reduction of available consular services in each country; however, core services will likely be maintained while diplomatic missions remain open.

Context

Several governments have expelled numerous Russian diplomats in recent weeks in connection with the conflict in Ukraine. Multiple governments have also cited espionage and national security concerns, among others, when expelling Russian diplomats. Notably, authorities in Finland, Greece, Norway, and Austria have expelled dozens of Russian diplomats.

Advice

Reconfirm appointments at the Russian Embassy in Zagreb as consular services may be disrupted due to the diplomatic expulsions.