US President Ready to Expel Russian Diplomats over Ex-Spy Case

US and European officials told The Washington Post Saturday that Trump was considering expelling 20 or more Russian diplomats and that aides close to the President are urging him to make the decision in solidarity with the United Kingdom.

Bloomberg also reported citing two sources familiar with the situation that the US President is preparing to expel dozens of Russian diplomats in response to the poisoning of Sergei Skripal.

CNN first reported Friday that the National Security Council (NSC) was expected to recommend that Trump make the decision to expel the diplomats.

The President met earlier this week with the NSC to discuss multiple responses to the poisoning of the ex-Russian spy and his daughter in Britain earlier this month. The recommendation will be the outcome of that meeting, according to CNN's sources. According to CNN, such a decision could be made as early as next week.

US Department of State Spokesperson Heather Nauert has also said Washington is considering a range of options to take steps against Russia following the poisoning of former Russian military intelligence (GRU) Colonel and his daughter in the British city of Salisbury.

Skripal, who had been convicted in Russia of spying for Great Britain and exchanged for Russian intelligence officers, and his daughter suffered the effects of a nerve agent in of Salisbury in early March.

London expelled 23 Russian diplomats and announced other restrictive measures against Moscow. In retaliation to the UK’s steps, 23 British diplomats were expelled, the British consulate general in the city of St. Petersburg was closed and the British Council had to shut down its operations in Russia. At the same time, Moscow pointed out that further measures could be taken "should there be any more hostile actions against Russia".