Italy expels two Russian intelligence officers over alleged espionage activities

Thursday 09 July 2026 - 10:54

By: Sahili Aya

Italy expels two Russian intelligence officers over alleged espionage activities

Italy has expelled two Russian military attachés accused of carrying out intelligence activities under diplomatic cover, marking a new escalation in tensions between Rome and Moscow over alleged foreign interference.

The decision was announced by Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, who said the government had ordered the departure of two officials from the Russian embassy in Rome after investigations by Italian prosecutors uncovered what authorities described as espionage-related activities.

According to the minister, the two Russian representatives, identified as Ivan Petrovich Gorbachev and Mikhail Vasilyevich Astakhov, were informed through diplomatic channels that they must leave Italy within three days.

Rome denounces “serious and unacceptable interference”

Italian authorities described the alleged intelligence operations as a serious violation of national security and a form of unacceptable interference in the country’s internal affairs.

The expulsions come as European governments continue to strengthen measures against suspected foreign intelligence activities, particularly those involving individuals operating under official diplomatic status.

While diplomatic personnel enjoy certain protections under international conventions, governments retain the right to remove officials considered a threat to national security.

A decision linked to wider investigation into alleged cooperation with Moscow

The announcement followed the arrest of two former Italian intelligence officers accused of sharing sensitive information with Russian contacts.

Italian investigators are examining allegations that classified material was transferred to Moscow, raising concerns about the possible involvement of foreign intelligence networks operating within the country.

The case has renewed debate in Italy over the protection of strategic information and the challenges faced by security agencies in countering covert influence operations.

Growing diplomatic pressure between Italy and Russia

The latest move adds to a broader deterioration in relations between Italy and Russia, which have been affected in recent years by disputes over security issues, sanctions and alleged intelligence activities.

Rome’s decision reflects a wider European trend of taking a firmer stance against suspected espionage operations linked to foreign states.

Italian officials have emphasized that protecting national institutions and preventing external interference remain priorities for the country’s security policy.