Andy Burnham became Prime Minister as a Russian warship conducted a live-fire weapons exercise off the British coast.

Andy Burnham assumed office as Prime Minister on Monday as the Russian frigate Neustrashimy conducted a 30-minute live-fire weapons exercise in international waters. The vessel, located approximately 40 nautical miles south of Plymouth, fired its main cannon after requesting that the British patrol vessel HMS Tyne move to a safe distance. The UK Ministry of Defence monitored the exercise and continues to track the vessel's activity to ensure national security. Wes Streeting, the newly appointed Defence Secretary, described the Russian maneuver as "performative and irresponsible," noting that it represents the "tip of the iceberg" of daily threats facing the UK and its allies. The exercise occurred amid heightened maritime tensions. While Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia acted in accordance with international law, the timing of the drill coincided with Burnham’s first day in office and his pledge to maintain resolute support for Ukraine. The move serves as a demonstration of Russian naval power during a period of increased activity in British waters.

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