A Russian tanker, the Arctic Metagaz, sank in the Mediterranean after reportedly being attacked by Ukrainian drones launched from Libya. The vessel, which had been carrying liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Murmansk, caught fire a day prior to its sinking, according to Libya’s maritime rescue agency. The agency noted that the tanker experienced sudden explosions followed by a massive fire, leading to its complete submersion.
This incident marks a significant escalation, as Ukraine has previously targeted Russian oil infrastructure but this is allegedly its first strike on an LNG tanker. The Ukrainian Security Service did not respond to requests for comment. Meanwhile, Russia’s transport ministry condemned the attack as an act of international terrorism and maritime piracy, asserting that all 30 crew members, who are Russian nationals, were rescued safely.
Libya’s National Oil Corporation distanced itself from the incident, stating it had no involvement. The ship was en route to Port Said, Egypt, and the Libyan agency has cautioned other vessels to steer clear of the area while monitoring for potential pollution from the vessel’s fuel oil.
