A Russian warship has fired warning shots near a UK-registered yacht in the English Channel during an incident that took place on Tuesday morning.
The event occurred between the Isle of Wight and the coast of Normandy and involved the Russian frigate Admiral Grigorovich. According to reports, the yacht was motor-less and drifting in foggy conditions after departing from the UK when it moved towards the warship.
The Russian vessel reportedly issued audible warnings before firing warning shots to force the yacht to change direction. No injuries or damage were reported.
The Ministry of Defence confirmed it is investigating reports of the incident. British authorities say they received accounts from those on board the yacht claiming shots were fired from around 500 yards away.
The incident took place roughly 20 nautical miles south of the Isle of Wight, outside UK territorial waters. Russian naval vessels are regularly tracked in the Channel by the Royal Navy.
The frigate involved was reportedly being shadowed by HMS Mersey at the time. It had also been monitored over the weekend by HMS Tyne and HMS Mersey during what the Navy described as routine operations.
In recent days, tensions in the region have increased following British military actions targeting vessels linked to Russia’s so-called shadow fleet, which is subject to international sanctions.
Defence sources have also previously linked the Admiral Grigorovich to escort operations for sanctioned oil tankers moving through the Channel, though officials say Tuesday’s incident is not currently believed to be connected.
The ship has been operating in the area for some time and has reportedly been supported at sea by a Russian repair vessel, allowing extended deployments.
Authorities in the UK say the situation remains under review as part of ongoing maritime monitoring in the region.
