MFA says expulsion of Germany, Sweden, and Poland diplomats from Russia is 'forced' measure

The diplomatic staff of the consulates general of Sweden and Poland... 

Russian MFA said that the expulsion of Germany, Sweden, and Poland diplomats from the country - amid participation in 'illegal' protests - is a 'forced' measure.

According to Russian MFA spokesperson Maria Zakharova, this was the measure that Moscow taken forced by 'Western countries'

The diplomatic staff of the consulates general of Sweden and Poland in St. Petersburg has been declared persona non grata.

The protests took place on January 23 in different cities of Russia and continued on February 31 and February 2, despite numerous warnings from the authorities. 

According to Russian President Vladimir Putin, everyone has the right to express an opinion, but anything that goes beyond the law is dangerous.