The niece of poisoned Russian spy Sergei Skripal has been denied a UK visa after applying to visit the country in order to visit her uncle and cousin, Yulia, in hospital, the Home Office has confirmed.
According to the government department, Viktoria Skripal will not be allowed to visit her family members, who were poisoned in the Salisbury attack, on the grounds that her application did not comply with UK Immigration Rules.
Yulia and Sergei Skripal are in hospital after being poisoned by a nerve agent in March, although doctors have revealed neither are in a critical condition.
According to Russian media, Yulia Skripal has already contacted her cousin to let her know they are recovering and will soon be discharged from the hospital. However, growing tensions between the UK and Russia following the incident are likely to prevent Vikroria from receiving the necessary endorsements to come to Britain.
Commenting on the situation, a Foreign Office spokesman stated that they government is pleased with the progress of Mr Skripal and his daughter, but believe there is no argument as to the source of the nerve agent.
"The NHS will continue to provide ongoing care for the Skripals, both of whom are likely to have ongoing medical needs,” he said. "Let us be clear, this was attempted murder using an illegal chemical weapon that we know Russia possesses."