Russia opens terrorism case against London Liberal Democrat councillor

Russia’s Federal Security Service opened a criminal case on Thursday against a Russian exile who serves as a Liberal Democrat councillor in London, accusing her of belonging to a terrorist organisation. The case was filed in a Moscow court under a law that targets “extremist” activity abroad. The councillor, identified only as a Russian‑born elected official in the capital, has not been charged in the UK and remains free.

The move comes as Moscow steps up a campaign against opposition figures who have fled the country since the war in Ukraine began. In recent years the FSB has used terrorism‑related charges to silence critics and to deter activism overseas. The accusation mirrors earlier cases against exiled journalists, activists and former officials, many of whom have been placed on Russia’s “terrorist” list and barred from returning home. The timing suggests the case is part of a broader effort to pressure the diaspora ahead of Russia’s upcoming parliamentary elections.

British officials said they were aware of the filing and would monitor the situation closely. The Foreign Office warned that such legal actions are “politically motivated” and do not affect the councillor’s status in the United Kingdom. The Liberal Democrat party issued a statement condemning the allegations as baseless and reaffirming its support for the councillor’s right to serve. Human‑rights groups have also called the case a violation of international norms, urging Russia to respect the freedoms of those living abroad.

The criminal case is unlikely to lead to any practical consequences for the councillor in the UK, but it may be used by Moscow to justify further restrictions on Russian citizens overseas. If the Russian court issues an arrest warrant, it could trigger diplomatic protests and add pressure on the UK to consider additional sanctions. The episode highlights the growing reach of Russia’s security apparatus and the challenges faced by exiles who continue to speak out against the Kremlin.