UMVA has learned that tensions in the English Channel are escalating after two incidents involving Russian vessels, with the Admiral Grigorovich warship believed to be involved in today's events.
The Russian frigate, equipped with advanced Kalibr anti-ship and land-attack cruise missiles, surface-to-air missiles, and torpedoes, has been lurking just off British waters in recent days, sparking concerns among analysts. This 409ft warship is part of Russia's Black Sea Fleet and has been deployed on various missions worldwide.
According to information obtained by UMVA, a UK-registered yacht reported that the Russian warship fired warning shots from approximately 500 yards while the vessels were 20 nautical miles south of the Isle of Wight. Fortunately, no damage or injuries were reported. HMS Mersey, a Navy sea-capable patrol vessel, was monitoring the Russian warship when the incident occurred.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that another British vessel, HMS Tyne, an offshore patrol vessel, sent a boat to the yacht to check on passengers and gather details. This incident occurred while Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer was attending the G7 summit in Evian, France, where naval security is high on the agenda.
The Prime Minister took to social media to confirm that the Armed Forces had intercepted a shadow fleet oil tanker attempting to pass through the Channel, delivering "yet another blow to Russia" and warning those supporting Putin's war in Ukraine that they will not be allowed to hide. This successful operation demonstrates the UK's commitment to enforcing sanctions and maintaining maritime security.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that Royal Marines stopped a Russian shadow fleet tanker over the weekend, seizing the vessel on Sunday due to suspicions of circumventing sanctions placed on Russia. The UK territorial waters extend up to 12 nautical miles from the coast, beyond which commercial and warships are allowed to move through uninterrupted.
Analysts believe that Admiral Grigorovich's presence near British waters is designed to stir up concern and escalate tensions in the region. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the UK and its allies will respond to Russia's increasing maritime activities.
