A retired British couple have described as ‘surreal’ an encounter with a Russian warship in the English Channel after warning shots were fired near their yacht. Jane and Alan Kelvey were sailing in international waters south of the Isle of Wight when they came into close proximity with the Russian frigate Admiral Grigorovich. The couple said they responded to warning horn signals by altering course, but were surprised when gunfire followed. Russian authorities claimed the yacht was making a dangerous approach and that warning shots were fired in accordance with international regulations after attempts to make contact. However, the Kelveys dispute this account, insisting they were not on a collision course and received no radio communication or warning flares. British officials have described the incident as isolated, while Keir Starmer called the actions reckless. The event highlights ongoing tensions in the region, where Russian naval activity continues to be closely monitored by British forces.