Australia Blocks New Russian Embassy for National Security Reasons

Australia has passed legislation to prevent Russia from building a new embassy near Parliament House due to concerns of espionage and political interference. The move comes amid growing tensions between the two countries over Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Australia is one of the largest supporters of Ukraine outside NATO and has escalated sanctions against Russia since the war began. The legislation extinguishes Russia's lease on the site of a second embassy based on the advice of security agencies. The law is expected to take effect later Thursday when it is rubber-stamped by Governor-General David Hurley.