Britain on Friday warned Russia against playing diplomatic chess games following the arrest of Paul Whelan, an ex-Marine with the dual UK and US citizenship, on charges of espionage.
Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt told media that Britain does not agree with individuals being used in a diplomatic tussle.
He added that Britain has offered consular access to Whelan but has not been able to visit him yet. Hunt said that the Foreign Office is also actively considering to change its travel advice for British citizens going to Russia.
Whelan, who has denied the charges, could face up to 20 years in prison if found guilty.