Military authorities are investigating an incident where a Russian warship fired warning shots near a UK yacht in the waters off the UK coast. This maritime encounter, although downplayed by the military, marked a significant direct interaction between the Russian military and a UK vessel. The incident occurred when the Kremlin frigate Admiral Grigorovitch, equipped with heavy armaments, fired shots at the yacht sailing between the Isle of Wight and Normandy.
Reports from UK defense sources indicate uncertainty whether the shots fired by the Grigorovich were actual rounds or flares, suggesting they were intended as a warning to the crew of the leisure yacht. The incident took place outside UK waters, approximately 20 nautical miles south of the Isle of Wight, in international waters or French territory.
This event follows the recent seizure of a vessel linked to the Kremlin’s shadow fleet, suspected of smuggling sanctioned oil. Notably, the two incidents are believed to be unrelated, occurring under foggy conditions at sea. Possible scenarios include the UK yacht unintentionally approaching the Russian vessel, prompting the Grigorovich to issue warnings to prevent a collision, possibly through flares or gunfire.
The Royal Navy dispatched two warships, HMS Mersey and HMS Tyne, to investigate the reported incident following the yacht’s crew alerting the authorities. The Admiral Grigorovitch, known for its cruise missile capabilities and various formidable armaments, has been a key asset for the Kremlin, particularly during the Syrian conflict supporting the Assad regime and operating within Vladimir Putin’s Black Sea Fleet.
Allegations from sailors aboard the British yacht claim that the Russian Navy vessel fired shots at a distance of 500 yards. Royal Navy sources confirm that both patrol vessels were monitoring the Kremlin frigate near Brest during the incident, which occurred close to the recent seizure of a “shadow fleet” vessel south of the Isle of Wight.
The Ministry of Defense stated that the warning shots from the Grigorovich were aimed at preventing a possible collision and were not directed at the yacht. They emphasized the isolated nature of the incident, unrelated to the previous vessel interception operation. The Royal Navy continues to monitor the Russian vessel and provide assistance to the yacht’s crew.
Confirmation from defense sources supports the yacht’s claims of warning shots fired by the Russian Navy vessel. No injuries or damages were reported on the yacht, which resumed its journey. A seaboat from HMS Tyne has been dispatched to ensure the safety of everyone on board the yacht.
A statement from the Kremlin detailed the encounter, indicating attempts to alert the yacht to change its course using international regulations. Despite firing flares and issuing sound signals, the yacht continued its approach until shots were fired to alter its trajectory, in compliance with maritime regulations to prevent potential incidents.
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