British defense officials are investigating a maritime incident where a Russian warship reportedly fired warning shots near a British yacht in UK waters. This event marks a significant direct encounter between the Russian military and a UK vessel, although it has been downplayed by military authorities. The incident occurred in the Channel as the Kremlin frigate Admiral Grigorovitch fired at the sailing vessel between the Isle of Wight and Normandy.
According to UK defense sources, it is unclear whether the Admiral Grigorovitch fired actual rounds or flares, but it was clearly intended as a warning to the crew of the leisure yacht. The incident took place 20 nautical miles south of the Isle of Wight, outside UK waters in international or French territory.
The altercation follows the recent seizure of a Russian vessel suspected of smuggling oil in defiance of sanctions. A senior source stated that the incident is believed to be unrelated to the smuggling case and occurred in foggy conditions. Possible reasons for the warning shots include the British vessel sailing too close to the Russian warship, an attempt to avert a collision, or signaling for attention.
The Royal Navy is actively investigating the incident, with crews from patrol boats HMS Mersey and HMS Tyne looking into the matter after the UK yacht crew reported it to authorities. The Admiral Grigorovitch, known for its cruise missile capabilities and formidable armaments, was involved in supporting the Assad regime in Syria and is part of Vladimir Putin’s Black Sea Fleet.
Reports indicate that the British yacht’s crew contacted French authorities, alleging that the Russian Navy vessel fired shots at a distance of 500 yards. Royal Navy sources mentioned that the patrol vessels were monitoring the Kremlin frigate near Brest at the time of the incident. The Ministry of Defence confirmed the reports and assured that the Russian fire did not cause any injuries or damage to the yacht, which continues its journey. HMS Tyne has dispatched a seaboat to ensure the safety of the yacht’s passengers.
