The Royal Navy’s HMS Tyne shadowed the frigate Neustrashimy. Before firing, the Russian crew informed the British ship of the planned gunnery exercise and asked it to move farther away for safety, according to the BBC. A French military aircraft also contacted the frigate by radio to ask about its intentions. Britain’s Ministry of Defense said the Royal Navy continued to “track the vessel’s activity closely” and “stands ready to protect UK national security.” The drill took place on Andy Burnham’s first day as British prime minister, although defense officials have offered no evidence that the timing was deliberate. Russian naval activity near Britain has increased in recent months; in June, a Russian frigate fired warning shots near a British sailing yacht in the English Channel and Royal Marines boarded a sanctioned Russian‑linked tanker. More from TVP World on Google Add TVP World to Preferred Sources to make it easier to find ★ Choose TVP World
