The UK’s Defence Secretary issued a warning about increasing threats to the country following an incident where lasers were directed at RAF pilots from a Russian spy ship. In an interview with the Mirror, Defence Secretary John Healey expressed concerns about escalating aggression by Vladimir Putin, emphasizing the need for the public to acknowledge a heightened level of danger. He disclosed that the Navy and Air Force had been deployed to counter the Kremlin spy ship Yantar, which had entered UK waters recently.
He condemned the act of aiming lasers at British planes as extremely hazardous and sent a direct message to the Russian leader, stating, “We see you.” He mentioned that the military would take action if the spy ship altered its course, signaling a significant rise in tensions between the UK and Moscow. The Yantar, known for surveillance during peacetime and potential sabotage in conflicts, was located near Scotland on Wednesday.
A Ministry of Defence (MOD) source confirmed the incursion of the Yantar into UK waters between November 5 and 11. Healey highlighted Putin’s increased aggression not only in Ukraine but also more broadly. He emphasized the necessity for heightened defense measures in response to the evolving threats.
Referring to a previous incident where a Royal Navy submarine warned off the Yantar, Healey underscored the current escalation of Russian threats. He emphasized the UK’s vigilance and preparations for potential confrontations if the spy ship changed its direction. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper criticized Moscow for escalating actions post-failures in Ukraine and pledged continued vigilance against Russian aggression.
The recent accusation by the Polish government of Russia orchestrating an explosion near a key route to Ukraine was condemned as an act of state terrorism. Cooper expressed support for Poland and denounced the sabotage of a crucial railway line delivering aid to Ukraine. The Dutch navy also escorted the Yantar out of the Netherlands’ waters earlier, without disclosing UK’s diplomatic actions against Russia regarding the spy ship.
Healey praised Labour’s commitment to defense spending, contrasting it with other political parties’ stances on national security. He reiterated Labour’s dedication to strengthening the UK’s defense capabilities and criticized other parties for their perceived weaknesses in addressing security concerns. He stressed the importance of prioritizing defense in the upcoming Budget, positioning Labour as the party focused on safeguarding the nation’s security.