The United Kingdom has escalated its warning to Russia, stating it is prepared to use “military options” after a Russian spy ship, the Yantar, directed lasers at British pilots monitoring the vessel off the coast of Scotland. Defence Secretary John Healey condemned the action as “deeply dangerous,” asserting that Britain is poised to react based on the ship’s next move.
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The Yantar, an intelligence-gathering vessel designed to map undersea cables, has been monitored for weeks by a UK naval frigate and RAF P-8 planes. In a speech, Healey delivered a direct message to President Vladimir Putin: “We see you. We know what you’re doing. And if the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready.” Healey confirmed that the Navy’s rules of engagement have been changed to allow closer monitoring, noting this is the first time the Yantar has directed such action against the RAF.
🚨 WATCH: Defence Secretary John Healey says a Russian spy ship entered the UK’s “wider waters” in the last few weeks near Scotland and directed lasers at British pilots
“My message to Putin is this…. If the Yantar travels South this week we are ready” pic.twitter.com/seTQOr3WRI
— Politics UK (@PolitlcsUK) November 19, 2025
In response to the accusations, the Russian embassy in London dismissed the claims as “Russophobic” and part of “militaristic hysteria,” stating Moscow’s actions do not threaten the UK’s interests or security. However, British officials note that Kremlin-linked vessels have been increasingly aggressive and are suspected of carrying out attacks on critical undersea infrastructure in a new form of “hybrid warfare.” Healey’s firm warning comes as the UK pushes for increased defense spending, aiming to reach 5 percent of its GDP by 2035 to meet the growing threat landscape.
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