Abstract
Abstract After uncovering Russian espionage activities on Italian territory, Italy expelled two Russian diplomats allegedly involved in such activities. The Italian decision, as well as the Russian response, offer a classic example of States’ reaction to acts of non-violent espionage. This comment offers a legal assessment of the events that unfolded in March 2021 and takes into account the implications, in matters concerning espionage, of declarations of persona non grata, diplomatic immunity and, generally, customary international law.
Highlights
In March 2021 Italy arrested an Italian Navy official on charges of providing highly classified documents to Russian agents, and expelled two Russian diplomats allegedly implicated in the espionage
The Italian decision, as well as the Russian response, offer a classic example of States’ reaction to acts of non-violent espionage. This comment offers a legal assessment of the events that unfolded in March 2021 and takes into account the implications, in matters concerning espionage, of declarations of persona non grata, diplomatic immunity and, generally, customary international law
Keywords espionage – Russia – Italy – diplomatic immunities – persona non grata – Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations – functional immunity In March 2021 Italy arrested an Italian Navy official on charges of providing highly classified documents to Russian agents, and expelled two Russian diplomats allegedly implicated in the espionage
Summary
In March 2021 Italy arrested an Italian Navy official on charges of providing highly classified documents to Russian agents, and expelled two Russian diplomats allegedly implicated in the espionage.
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