Russian LNG Carrier Sinks in Mediterranean After Sudden Explosion and Fire
The Arctic Metagaz, a Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier, has sunk in the central Mediterranean Sea between Libya and Malta. The incident occurred after a "sudden explosion" triggered a massive blaze on board, according to Libya’s ports and maritime transport authority.
Rescue Operation Saves All Crew Members
All 30 crew members were successfully rescued in nearby Libyan waters. Libyan authorities stated that the Arctic Metagaz tanker "had experienced sudden explosions followed by a massive fire, which ultimately led to its complete sinking" north of the Libyan coast. There have been no immediate reports of casualties among the crew.
International Coordination in Rescue Efforts
The Maltese armed forces, through their Rescue Coordination Centre, helped coordinate the response. Survivors from the Arctic Metagaz were found in a lifeboat inside Libya’s search-and-rescue area and were all reported safe. The Armed Forces of Malta said they were alerted to a distress situation involving the vessel outside Malta’s search-and-rescue region and initiated verification procedures.
- Tracking data showed the ship had earlier loaded LNG at a Russian floating storage unit.
- The vessel sailed around Western Europe into the Mediterranean.
- Its Automatic Identification System signal disappeared roughly 30 nautical miles off Malta’s northeastern coast prior to the fire.
Allegations of Ukrainian Drone Attack
According to local reports, Russia’s transport ministry later accused Ukraine of launching a naval-drone attack against the tanker from the Libyan coast. The ministry claimed that the Arctic Metagaz was struck by uncrewed surface vessels. However, Kyiv has not publicly commented on these allegations.
Details of the Incident and Aftermath
Maltese and Libyan authorities confirmed that the crew abandoned ship as the fire spread. They were subsequently transferred to another vessel after rescue coordination messages were broadcast to nearby shipping. The international partners worked together to locate the vessel and ensure the safety of all personnel involved.
- The explosion and fire led to the complete sinking of the LNG carrier.
- All crew members were rescued without any reported injuries.
- The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the region, with Russia alleging Ukrainian involvement.
This maritime incident underscores the volatile security situation in the Mediterranean and the potential risks to international shipping lanes. The sinking of the Arctic Metagaz represents a significant event in global energy transport, given its cargo of liquefied natural gas and the geopolitical implications surrounding the allegations of attack.
