The UK’s maritime authorities are investigating an incident involving a Russian warship firing warning shots near a British yacht in waters off the UK coast. This event marks a significant direct confrontation between the Russian military and a UK vessel in recent times, although military officials have downplayed its seriousness.
The incident occurred when the Kremlin frigate Admiral Grigorovitch, equipped with heavy armaments, fired shots at the leisure yacht sailing between the Isle of Wight and Normandy. While it is unclear whether the shots fired were actual rounds or flares, it was evidently meant as a warning to the yacht’s crew. The incident took place 20 nautical miles south of the Isle of Wight, outside UK waters in international or French territory.
Following the seizure of a Russian vessel suspected of smuggling oil, the incident involving the yacht and the Russian warship occurred in foggy conditions. It is speculated that the UK yacht may have ventured too close to the Russian vessel, prompting the warning shots. British warships, HMS Mersey and HMS Tyne, are currently investigating the matter after being informed by the UK yacht crew.
The Russian warship, Admiral Grigorovitch, known for its cruise missile capabilities and potent armaments, has been a crucial asset for the Kremlin, particularly during the conflict in Syria. The British yacht’s crew reported the incident to French authorities, claiming that the Russian Navy vessel fired shots from a distance of 500 yards. Royal Navy sources indicated that the patrol vessels were monitoring the Russian frigate near Brest during the incident.
The Ministry of Defence is looking into the Channel incident, confirming reports that the Russian warship fired warning shots near the UK yacht. Fortunately, there were no injuries or damage reported, and the yacht continues its journey. HMS Tyne has dispatched a seaboat to ensure the safety of the yacht’s occupants.