Tripoli, Libya. A Russian tanker carrying liquefied natural gas sank in the Mediterranean on Wednesday after what Moscow described as an attack by Ukrainian drones launched from Libya. Libya’s maritime rescue agency said the Arctic Metagaz sank between Libya and Malta after catching fire a day earlier.
Sinking and rescue
Libya’s maritime rescue agency said information indicated the tanker experienced sudden explosions followed by a massive fire, leading to its complete sinking. Russia’s transport ministry said all 30 crew members, all Russian nationals, were safe and thanked Maltese rescue services.
Russia’s account and legal characterization
Russia’s transport ministry said the tanker had been carrying LNG from the Arctic port of Murmansk and was attacked by Ukrainian naval drones launched from the coast of Libya. The ministry described the incident as an act of international terrorism and maritime piracy and a gross violation of fundamental norms of international maritime law.
Ukraine and regional responses
The Security Service of Ukraine did not respond to a Reuters request for comment. Ukraine has frequently targeted Russian oil refineries and other energy infrastructure, but if confirmed, this would be its first attack on an LNG tanker.
Statements from Libya and Egypt
Libya’s National Oil Corporation said it had no involvement with the tanker and said it was en route to Port Said, Egypt. Egypt’s petroleum ministry denied any connection with the tanker, saying it was not bound for any of Egypt’s ports.
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