The Russian Embassy in the UK has labelled Britain as "suspicious" following recent claims regarding a Russian spy ship's activities. The embassy's remarks came after Defence Secretary John Healey announced that the Russian vessel, the Yantar, had allegedly used lasers to disrupt RAF pilots monitoring its movements.

During a news conference at Downing Street, Healey stated, "My message to Russia and to Putin is this: we see you. We know what you're doing." He explained that the Yantar was operating near UK waters, specifically north of Scotland, and is designed for intelligence gathering and mapping undersea cables.

Healey further detailed the UK's response, noting that a Royal Navy frigate and RAF aircraft were deployed to track the Yantar's activities. He described the use of lasers against British pilots as "deeply dangerous" and highlighted that this incident marks the second time this year the Yantar has entered UK waters.

In reaction to Healey's statements, the Russian Embassy issued a statement saying, "We have noticed the latest provocative statements made by the head of the British defence department, John Healey. This time, the reason was the activities of the Russian oceanographic research vessel 'Yantar' in international waters." The embassy dismissed the UK's accusations, stating, "The endless accusations and suspicions of the British leadership only raise a smile. The actions of our country do not affect the interests of the United Kingdom and are not aimed at undermining its security. We are not interested in British underwater communications."

This exchange highlights the ongoing tensions between the UK and Russia, particularly concerning military activities in proximity to British waters.