Russia: Russia's Defense Ministry announced on Tuesday that the frigate Admiral Grigorovich fired warning shots at a British-flagged sailing yacht in the English Channel. The incident occurred after the yacht approached the Russian warship, prompting concerns over its proximity and maneuvering.
According to Anadolu Agency, the civilian yacht, named Bright Future, was under power and maneuvering dangerously close to the frigate. The ministry reported that despite several attempts to establish contact via the international radio channel, the yacht's crew did not respond or change their course.
The ministry detailed on Telegram that, to alert the yacht's crew, the frigate launched signal flares and sounded warning signals. However, when the yacht came within 150 meters, the commander of the frigate ordered warning shots to be fired using small arms.
Following the warning shots, the yacht altered its course and moved away from the Russian warship. The ministry emphasized that the crew of the Admiral Grigorovich adhered strictly to international shipping regulations and took all necessary measures to avert an incident.
Earlier reports from British media indicated that the UK Defense Ministry was investigating the reports of the Russian frigate firing warning shots when the yacht came within 500 meters of the vessel. This occurred approximately 20 miles (32.1 kilometers) south of the Isle of Wight.
The reports noted that no injuries or damage were reported aboard the yacht, which continued its voyage. In response, a vessel from HMS Tyne was dispatched to gather information about the incident and ensure the safety of the yacht's crew.
This incident follows closely on the heels of the UK's seizure of a Russia-linked oil tanker off the coast of the Isle of Wight, marking the first time British forces have led such a seizure of a sanctioned vessel since the onset of the war in Ukraine. Additionally, the UK Foreign Office has recently imposed new sanctions against Russia, targeting its shadow fleet and individuals believed to support its oil trade.