A Russian tanker carrying liquefied natural gas (LNG) has sunk in the Mediterranean Sea after being struck by Ukrainian naval drones, according to Russian officials. The incident, which occurred near the territorial waters of Malta on March 3, has prompted Moscow to accuse Ukraine of “international terrorism” and “maritime piracy.”
The vessel, identified as the Arktik Metagaz, was reportedly transporting cargo from Murmansk in compliance with international regulations, the Russian Ministry of Transport stated. The attack took place from the Libyan coast, officials added. According to reports from the Libyan authorities, the ship ultimately sank.
The crew of 30, all Russian citizens, were rescued following a coordinated operation involving Maltese and Russian rescue services. They were found in a lifeboat, according to Maltese armed forces.
The United States, the European Union and the United Kingdom had previously imposed sanctions on the Arktik Metagaz.
While Kyiv has not yet commented on the allegations, the Russian Ministry of Transport described the attack as a violation of international maritime law. Moscow also suggested the incident would exacerbate instability in global energy markets, particularly impacting European supplies.
Images and videos circulating on social media depict a large fire erupting on the ship in the early hours of March 3. The development underscores growing tensions in the region as Ukraine continues to target assets linked to Russia’s war effort.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused Ukraine of a “terrorist attack” in connection with the sinking of the tanker, stating that Kyiv is harming itself through such actions.
