Arctic Metagas Drifts in Mediterranean After Explosion
A Russian “shadow fleet” tanker, known as the Arctic Metagas, is currently drifting in the Mediterranean Sea with a large hole in its hull and no crew on board. The vessel, built in 2003 and flying the Russian flag, was transporting over 60,000 tons of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Arctic LNG 2, a major Russian production plant on the Gydan Peninsula.
The damage was likely caused by an explosion, with Russia claiming the ship was attacked by Ukrainian maritime drones. However, there has been no independent confirmation of this version of events. The Arctic Metagas is part of the shadow fleet, which helps Russia export oil and gas while bypassing international sanctions.
Crew Abandons Ship After Explosion
On March 3, an explosion and fire occurred on the ship, prompting the crew of approximately 30 people to evacuate using lifeboats. According to a statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry, Malta did not want to rescue the crew members, and they were accepted by Libya. Specifically, they were taken in by the eastern Libyan government based in Benghazi rather than the UN-recognized government in Tripoli.
The damaged tanker is now drifting between Malta, Italy, and Libya. In addition to the LNG, the ship carries hundreds of tons of diesel and fuel oil. Mediterranean countries, including Italy, have asked the European Commission to take action to prevent an environmental disaster if the fuel spills into the sea.
Salvage Efforts Stalled
Currently, no party has taken responsibility for salvaging the ship. Because the Arctic Metagas is under sanctions and has a complex ownership structure, it exists in a legal vacuum as it moves toward Libyan waters. The vessel’s fate remains uncertain, with its drifting trajectory posing environmental risks to the Mediterranean region.
In comparison, another Russian oil tanker, Progress, drifted out of control in the Mediterranean Sea after experiencing mechanical issues off the coast of Algeria. The vessel was carrying approximately 730,000 barrels of Russian Urals crude and had been traveling toward the Suez Canal when it abruptly changed course and left established shipping lanes.
Original Article: Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker Left Adrift in Mediterranean After Explosion — United24Media