The furious diplomatic row between Britain and Russia spilled into Europe yesterday as Britain looked for solidarity from its EU partners and Russia warned them not to get involved. Britain failed to win the immediate, concerted response it was seeking.
| 'Nother words, the Brits were left hanging. The more reason not to get too cozy with the Americans. Why have an ally if they can be counted upon to be there when you need them? |
The Foreign Office had wanted a quick statement from the Portuguese, who hold the EU presidency, that would express a united European position denouncing Moscow for its lack of cooperation over the Litvinenko murder inquiry. But late yesterday the Portuguese prime minister, Jose Socrates, had been unable to find a consensus among his fellow leaders. A statement may come today, but the delay may have weakened its impact.
| A joint statement from the EU has the same impact no matter when it's issued. |
Meanwhile, the Portuguese foreign minister, Luis Amado, repeatedly emphasised that the matter was "a bilateral issue" between Britain and Russia.
| Europe is united only when it wants to be. Maybe they should discuss pension plans. |
The French offered particularly vocal support, but German foreign ministry officials reportedly believed Britain had overreacted by expelling four diplomats.
| Bad for business, and especially bad for natural gas deliveries. |
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