Official statements from the UK Ministry of Defence or credible news outlets

Royal Navy Sub Surfaces Near Russian Spy Ship Yantar in English Channel; Healey Warns Putin 'We See You'

Jan 22, 2025, 03:03 PM

The Royal Navy has been monitoring the Russian intelligence vessel Yantar after it entered British waters earlier this week, approximately 45 miles off the British coast. Defence Secretary John Healey informed Parliament that the Russian ship, known for gathering intelligence and mapping critical underwater infrastructure, was tracked as it passed through the English Channel and the UK's Exclusive Economic Zone. The Royal Navy frigate HMS Somerset, support ship RFA Proteus, and a submarine, which surfaced near the Yantar to warn it, were deployed to monitor and shadow the vessel. Healey issued a warning to President Vladimir Putin, stating, "We see you, we know what you are doing, and we will not shy away from robust action to protect this country." Healey emphasized the UK's commitment to safeguarding its maritime infrastructure against growing Russian threats.