U.S.expels 12 Russian U.N. diplomats over security concerns

U.S. Deputy U.N. Ambassador Richard Mills responded: "Those diplomats that have been asked to leave the United States were engaged in activities that were not in accordance with their responsibilities and obligations as diplomats." He said they had been asked to leave "so they do not harm the national security of the host country," adding that the decision was taken in full accordance with the U.N. headquarters agreement.  State Department spokesman Ned Price told a separate briefing in Washington that he didn't have any details "in front of me."

Meanwhile, the European Union has slapped sanctions on 26 more Russians, including oligarchs, senior officials and an energy insurance company, in response to the country's invasion of Ukraine. EU headquarters said those listed include “oligarchs and businessmen active in the oil, banking and finance sectors,” government officials, top military brass and “propagandists who contributed to spread anti-Ukrainian propaganda and promote a positive attitude towards the invasion of Ukraine.” The bloc had already imposed an asset freeze on President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. EU sanctions now apply to a total of 680 people and 53 entities, which are usually organizations, agencies, banks or companies. Gas Industry Insurance Company SOGAZ was listed Monday.