UK accuses Russian spy ship of directing lasers at British pilots, threatens military response

British defense minister John Healey said directing lasers at RAF pilots was "deeply dangerous" and Britain was poised to react depending on the Yantar's next move.

An image of the Russian spy ship Yantar which is operating off the northern coast of Scotland, taken November 19, 2025

An image of the Russian spy ship Yantar which is operating off the northern coast of Scotland, taken November 19, 2025

(photo credit: STEFAN ROUSSEAU/POOL VIA REUTERS)

ByREUTERS

NOVEMBER 19, 2025 15:32