North Macedonia: Authorities order departure of six Russian diplomats as of April 15

Event

The government of North Macedonia has ordered six Russian diplomats to leave the country as of April 15. Authorities in Skopje provided no details on the reason for the expulsion except to indicate that it was due to the diplomats in question being engaged in activities contrary to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. This is the second expulsion of Russian diplomats from the country since the beginning of Russia's invasion of Ukraine; the North Macedonian government expelled five diplomats in mid-March.

Some disruptions to consular services at the Russian Embassy in Skopje are possible. 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 other reasons, when expelling Russian diplomats. Notably, authorities in Finland, Croatia, Greece, Norway, and Austria have expelled dozens of Russian diplomats.

Advice

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