After the Russian government was accused of poisoning a former Russian spy and his daughter who were living in the United Kingdom, on March 26 the US expelled 60 Russian diplomatic staff members and closed Russia’s consulate in Seattle. In response, on March 29, Russia expelled 60 US diplomats and closed the US consulate in St. Petersburg.
Due to the poisoning, in which a nerve agent was used, more that 20 countries, including the UK, also expelled Russian diplomats. Russia has denied any involvement. As of press time, the poisoned man remained in critical but stable condition. His daughter was recovering.