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Russian Diplomat Who Was Arrested in the Hague Leaves the Netherlands

Russian diplomat Dmitry Borodin, whose arrest in the Hague earlier this year inflamed tensions in Dutch-Russian relations, has announced his departure from the Netherlands.

"I left the Netherlands yesterday. It was not entirely my choice I feel no hatred towards the Dutch people. I left there many friends," Borodin wrote Sunday on Twitter.

The diplomat continued on an admonishing note, saying that he "has serious questions to those who pretend having moral superiority and the right to preach without listening."

When another Twitter user asked about his future, Borodin responded, "We'll live and see."

On Oct. 5 Borodin was reportedly beaten and detained by Dutch police who had been summoned to his residence by reports of child abuse.

Borodin said that he was taken to a police station and questioned there late into the night before being suddenly released without explanation.

He has denied any improper behavior towards his two children, calling the abuse report a "false pretext."

Dutch authorities found that Borodin's diplomatic immunity had been violated and issued an official apology, but despite pressure from Moscow have steadfastly refused to prosecute the police officers involved.

The incident inspired what appeared to be a swift retaliation in Moscow, where assailants beat Dutch diplomat Onno Elderenbosch after infiltrating his apartment disguised as electricians.

The episodes were unfortunately timed, as 2013, the Russia-Netherlands Bilateral Year, was intended to highlight and encourage cooperation between the two countries.

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