Kathmandu— The United Kingdom is reportedly seeking to reestablish direct military contact with Russia, driven by concerns over a possible unintended escalation at sea. British officials and diplomats have been pressuring senior military figures to connect with their Russian counterparts, despite a four-year gap in communication between top leaders; the last reported conversation occurred in 2022, and there has been no dialogue between defense ministers since October of that year. The move comes amid heightened tensions stemming from the conflict in Ukraine and recent incidents like warning shots fired by a Russian frigate near a British yacht in the English Channel.

Growing Concerns Over Maritime Incidents

Senior officials and diplomats are reportedly “nervous about the lack of communication,” fearing that miscalculations at sea could trigger a wider conflict with Russia. A recent incident involving the Russian frigate Admiral Grigorovich firing warning shots near a British yacht in the English Channel has heightened these anxieties, although both Moscow and London maintain the action was intended to prevent a collision. While a military hotline remains operational and diplomatic channels exist through embassies, officials believe direct communication between senior leaders is crucial.

Deteriorating Relations Precede Ukraine Conflict

The push for renewed dialogue comes after years of strained relations between London and Moscow, predating the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine in 2022. Russia has accused Britain of contributing to increased tensions, citing its support for the 2014 change of government in Kiev. In 2021, a Royal Navy destroyer, HMS Defender, sailed through waters near Crimea – which Russia considers its territorial sea – prompting further friction.

UK Support for Ukraine Complicates Dialogue

Since the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine, the UK has become a leading military supporter of Kiev, providing advanced weaponry such as Storm Shadow cruise missiles. Moscow alleges that these systems require Western expertise to operate effectively. Reports also indicate that former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson discouraged Ukraine from pursuing a peace agreement negotiated with Russia during early talks in Istanbul.

Russian Willingness for Diplomacy

Despite being labeled an “unfriendly” nation by Russia, the UK has indicated openness to diplomatic engagement. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated in June that Russia is “not opposed to contacts with any party.” However, Lavrov also accused Britain and other Western European governments of expansionist policies, hindering substantive dialogue.

Efforts to reestablish high-level military communication are ongoing as the UK seeks to mitigate risks and maintain channels for de-escalation amidst persistent tensions.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.