INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
Moscow said on Thursday that a Norwegian consul can no longer stay in Russia after she was filmed declaring "I hate Russians" during an
angry outburst at a hotel reception."After what happened, Elisabeth Ellingsen's presence in Russia is impossible," the Foreign Ministry said
"insulting Russophobic remarks."The Norwegian diplomat was recorded insulting Russians at a hotel reception in the Arctic city of
Murmansk.The video was posted over the weekend by the Mash Telegram channel, reputed to be close to the Russian security services, and
sparked an outcry in the country."I hate Russians..
I'm used to clean rooms, I'm from Scandinavia," Ellingsen was recorded as saying in English.Ellingsen's outburst comes at a time of tensions
between Russia and the West over Russia's offensive in Ukraine, which has prompted a volley of European and U.S
sanctions against Moscow.The Norwegian foreign ministry said at the weekend it "deeply regretted" the incident."The sentiments expressed do
not reflect Norwegian policy or the Norwegian attitude towards Russia," the foreign ministry said.On Thursday, Moscow said it had taken note
of the Norwegian foreign ministry's statement.A spokeswoman for the Norwegian foreign ministry, Guri Solberg, said on Thursday the country's
consulate general in Murmansk.
