Decision to expel Russian diplomats informed by 'concerning' security briefing

A plaque at the Russian Embassy in Dublin. Picture: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

The decision to expel four senior Russian diplomats from Ireland earlier this week was taken after the Government received a "concerning" security briefing, the Taoiseach has said.

The four diplomats were asked to leave the country for behaviour "not in accordance with international standards" in a move which prompted strong criticism from the Russian Embassy. The move "will not go unanswered", the Russians said.