Vladimir Putin issued warning by UK Defence Secretary over Russian spy ship - 'we see you'

The Defence Secretary John Healey told the Russian leader: 'We see you, we know what you are doing and we will not shy away from robust action to protect this country'

John Healey has issued a warning to Vladimir Putin after telling MPs about a Russian spy vessel operating around the UK

The Defence Secretary told the Russian leader: "We see you, we know what you are doing and we will not shy away from robust action to protect this country."

It came as the minister told MPs the Russian vessel, Yanta, was currently in the North Sea having passed through British waters.

He said: "Let me be clear, this is a Russian spy ship used for gathering intelligence and mapping the UK's critical underwater infrastructure. Yantar entered the UK exclusive economic zone about 45 miles off the British coast on Monday.

"For the last two days the Royal Navy has deployed HMS Somerset and HMS Tyne to monitor the vessel every minute through our waters.

"AI changed the Royal Navy's rules of engagement so that our warships can get closer and better track the Yantar. So far, the ship has complied with international rules of navigation."

The Ministry of Defence said the vessel was previously caught "loitering over critical undersea infrastructure" in British waters just weeks ago.

Shadow defence secretary James Cartlidge said he supported the Government's openness over how it was tackling the Russian naval threat.

He said: "We welcome that transparency because it is critical for our war readiness ... that as far as we are able, and without compromising our national security and operational security, we tell the British public the truth about the serious nature of the Russian threat and what that will inevitably mean for public expenditure on defence.

"I specifically welcome the change to the Royal Navy's rules of engagement. This sends a powerful signal to Putin that we will not be intimidated and that if his aim is to keep pushing the boundaries of malign activity in our waters, and those proximate to us, we will respond."

Mr Healey added that Russia was "dangerous but fundamentally weak", as he referenced the casualties the country had suffered during the war in Ukraine and its decision to draft in troops from North Korea.

He said: "Russia remains the most pressing and immediate threat to Britain, and I want to assure the House and the British people that any threat will be met with strength and resolve."