Amidst rising tensions, the British Defence Secretary announced that a Russian spy ship had entered British waters and targeted lasers at pilots from the Royal Air Force. John Healey described the incident as a serious provocation and a sign of a "new era of threats" from hostile states.
The announcement came against the backdrop of intense activity by the Russian ship, designated for gathering intelligence and mapping underwater communication lines. According to British authorities, the vessel had crossed the United Kingdom's exclusive economic zone several times in recent weeks. This time, however, Russian sailors aimed lasers at RAF pilots who were monitoring the ship.
Reporters on the scene report growing tension.
"As I speak, the Russian spy ship 'Yantar' is on the edge of British waters, north of Scotland. They aimed lasers at our pilots. This is deeply dangerous. The second similar mission of 'Yantar' this year," said Healey during a statement from Downing Street. His words were spoken with clear concern.
To monitor the ship's movement, the UK has sent a Royal Navy frigate and P-8 reconnaissance aircraft. Healey emphasized that if the 'Yantar' changes course, the country has "military options" and is fully prepared to respond. This demonstrates the country's determination to protect its interests and maintain security in the region.
In response to the incident, the rules of engagement for the British Navy have already been changed. Ships can now monitor Russian vessels from a distance equivalent to a football field. According to analysts, this is a response to Moscow's alleged attempts to map the UK's critical underwater infrastructure.
Meanwhile, the UK's Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper expressed the country's position regarding relations with Moscow.
"Russia failed to achieve its military goals this year and is therefore constantly trying to escalate. We see clearly what Putin is doing. We will remain vigilant and resolute in our response. This will not stop us from supporting Ukraine – on the contrary, Ukraine's security is also our security," Cooper emphasized. Her words demonstrate London's unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of ongoing aggression from Russia. Cooper stressed that such provocations would not change London's commitment to the security of NATO and Eastern European countries.
At the same time, the UK is struggling to reach an agreement with the European Union regarding the financing of a new defence fund. Disagreements are about the terms of the UK's participation in the new European defence fund Safe. According to sources, Brussels insists on a British contribution between €4.5 and €6.5 billion, while London has offered between €200 and €300 million.
Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized the country's determination not to compromise.
"We will not sign an agreement if it does not represent good value for money. We are ready to participate, but not at any price. We have a defence industry that is second to none in Europe, and we will continue to play our part for security – in or out of Safe," said Healey.
The reaction from Moscow was immediate. The Russian embassy in London responded with a statement in which it accused the British government of "Russophobia" and "militaristic hysteria". Moscow claims that the activity of 'Yantar' is completely legal and in international waters.
"The actions of our country do not affect the interests of the United Kingdom and are not aimed at undermining its security. London, with its Russophobic line, is itself creating dangerous situations in Europe," the embassy statement said.
The official statement from Russia is an attempt to downplay the ship's actions and divert attention from its alleged espionage activities. This position underscores the growing tensions between the two countries. The situation continues to evolve, with the UK promising to protect its interests and those of its NATO allies by all necessary means.