British intelligence expects Russia to carry out a provocation against NATO
This is reported by the Daily Mail, citing sources within British intelligence.
Why Britain is expecting further moves from the Kremlin
The publication’s sources believe that following the change of government in London, Moscow may be looking for an opportunity to test the resolve of the new Prime Minister, Andy Bernam, and the unity of NATO allies.
They cite the Russian navy’s activity off the British coast as one sign of such a tactic. In particular, following the interception in the English Channel of a tanker linked to Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’, some vessels changed course and began sailing across the Atlantic north of the Shetland Islands.
Further concern was caused by the manoeuvres of a Russian frigate, which last week opened fire in international waters off the south coast of Great Britain. At the same time, sources suggest that this may be merely one of several signals, rather than the main threat.
Intelligence sources also point out that the hostilities in Ukraine have not yielded the results the Kremlin had anticipated. In their view, this may prompt Moscow to test the reaction of its Western allies.
How is the UK responding?
Against the backdrop of tensions surrounding Iran, the British security services have stepped up security measures to protect military installations. Defence Eye analyst Tim Ripley also warned that certain types of Iranian ballistic missiles are potentially capable of reaching the UK.
The country’s Ministry of Defence stated that the armed forces remain on constant alert to respond to air and missile threats.
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting emphasised that Russia should have no doubt about London’s readiness to defend both its own territory and its allies.
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