A Russian Su-27 fighter jet flew within just 6 metres of an unarmed British reconnaissance aircraft conducting routine operations over the Black Sea, triggering the plane's emergency systems. Defence Secretary John Healey condemned Russia's behaviour as dangerous and unacceptable.
The incident comes amid growing tensions over Russian military conduct and revelations that diesel and jet fuel refined from Russian crude oil continues to enter the United Kingdom through a sanctions loophole. Economics editor Ed Conway explained that the UK is the world's largest jet fuel importer and much of its Indian-sourced fuel originates from Russian crude.
Prime Minister Starmer called Ukrainian President Zelensky to reaffirm British support in the wake of the incident. The call underscored the UK's commitment to standing with Ukraine against Russian aggression.
The close encounter represents one of the most dangerous aerial incidents between NATO and Russian forces in recent months and has reignited calls for stricter enforcement of sanctions on Russian energy products entering Western markets through third countries.