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Russia has labeled the British Council an "undesirable organization," accusing it of aligning with UK government interests. The Council, previously ordered to halt operations in 2018, has yet to respond.
Russian President Vladimir Putin. (Reuters photo)
UPDATED: Jun 6, 2025 06:42 IST
Russia's Prosecutor General's Office announced on Thursday that it has designated the British Council as an "undesirable organization."
In a statement, the office claimed that although the Council presents itself as an independent entity, its activities are closely aligned with UK government priorities. It added that the British Council is accountable to the UK Parliament and receives funding from the Foreign Office.
The British Council, which describes itself as the United Kingdom’s international agency for cultural relations and educational programs, was previously ordered to halt operations in Russia in 2018.
As of now, the British Council has not issued a comment in response to the designation, and did not reply to a request for comment outside of regular business hours in London.
Published By:
Aashish Vashistha
Published On:
Jun 6, 2025
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