UK defense minister warns Putin of 'serious consequences' after covert underwater military operation

U.K. Defense Minister John Healey warned Russia of "serious consequences" after a weeks-long military operation in the North Sea. The operation, involving the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, deterred three Russian submarines, including a nuclear-powered Akula-class submarine and two spy submarines, from potentially damaging underwater cables within Britain's economic exclusionary zone. Healey stated the submarines were directed by Putin to conduct hybrid warfare against the U.K. and its allies. Norway participated in the operation, confirming cooperation to deter covert activities in their waters. The submarines left U.K. waters after being monitored, and no damage to infrastructure was reported. This is the second such incident in six months, with a similar operation occurring in November 2025.

UK Defence Secretary John Healey announced that the Royal Navy recently tracked and deterred three Russian submarines attempting to survey undersea infrastructure in the North Atlantic. The operation, involving a warship and P8 marine patrol aircraft, lasted over a month and aimed to prevent any potential damage to vital cables and pipelines. Healey stated that the Russian activity occurred while international attention was focused on the Middle East. While no damage was confirmed, the UK is working with allies to verify the infrastructure's integrity. Healey emphasized the UK's commitment to protecting its undersea assets and warned Russia against any future attempts to sabotage them. He also addressed concerns about NATO contributions, affirming the US's commitment to the alliance.

British Defence Secretary John Healey announced that the UK, along with Norway and other allies, tracked and deterred three Russian submarines in the North Atlantic near vital undersea cables and pipelines over a month-long period. The operation involved British warships and military aircraft. Healey stated that the purpose of revealing the mission was to expose Russia's activity and warn President Putin against any attempts to damage the infrastructure, threatening serious consequences. The tracked vessels included an Akula-class nuclear-powered attack submarine and two specialist submarines from Russia's Main Directorate of Deep Sea Research (GUGI). The Russian embassy in London refuted the allegations, stating that Russia does not threaten undersea infrastructure.