The Russian foreign ministry has expressed concern over an attempt by the authorities in Belarus to expel diplomats from their homes.

A spokesman in Moscow said such decisions should be taken in accordance with international law.

The authorities in Belarus have told twenty-two diplomats to leave their homes in a complex just outside the capital, Minsk, so that repairs can be carried out.

But several diplomats protested, including the American ambassador, Daniel Speckhard, who said he and his staff would refuse to leave.