Russia expelled two American diplomats, ordered them to leave the country within seven days

Russia's Foreign Ministry on Thursday ordered two US diplomats to leave the country within seven days. These diplomats have been accused of being involved in illegal activities.

Russia's Foreign Ministry said US embassy officials in Russia Jeffrey Silin and David Bernstein remained in contact with the former US consular employee who was arrested earlier this year.

The former employee was accused of gathering information for US diplomats about Russia's military actions in Ukraine and related issues. US Ambassador to Russia Lynn Tracy was summoned to the ministry on Thursday. He was informed that Silin and Bernstein were being expelled.

The US Embassy in Moscow said in a statement that the US government would respond 'appropriately'. US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said in Washington that Russia had chosen confrontation rather than diplomatic engagement. We will respond appropriately to their actions.