UK and Dutch Navies Monitor Russian Ship in North Sea

A Russian vessel in the North Sea is being escorted by the British and Dutch navies, with involvement from a UK warship, a Dutch NH90 helicopter, and the Dutch Coast Guard. According to a spokesperson from the Dutch Ministry of Defence, the Russian ship, Yantar, is in the exclusive economic zone, which is part of international waters.

Previously, it sailed through Dutch waters. The British note that the Yantar originates from the Mediterranean.

UK Defence Minister Healey informed the House of Commons that the ship is used for intelligence gathering and monitoring critical infrastructure, such as underwater cables. This incident marks the second time in two months that Yantar has entered British waters.

In November, a British submarine surfaced near Yantar, indicating close surveillance of the Russian vessel. Healey described the situation as an example of “growing Russian aggression.” On Monday, the frigate HMS Somerset was dispatched to Yantar as it entered British waters.

Intelligence agencies have long warned about Russian ships surveying and sometimes damaging pipelines and cables, with involvement from the so-called Russian shadow fleet, used for transporting oil and gas. In December, a ship in the Baltic Sea was accused by Finland of damaging a power cable with its anchors.

Source: NOS

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