Damaged Russian tanker adrift in Mediterranean to be towed to Libyan port
Libyan authorities have announced that a damaged Russian tanker in the Mediterranean Sea will be towed to a Libyan port.
Libyan authorities have announced that a damaged Russian tanker in the Mediterranean Sea will be towed to a Libyan port.
The Arctic Metagaz, part of Russia’s “shadow fleet,” was transporting liquefied natural gas to Egypt when it experienced explosions earlier this month. All 30 crew members were successfully rescued.
Video evidence depicts the tanker listing with fire damage and holes in the hull. Russian sources attribute the incident to Ukrainian naval drones, although there has been no official comment from Kiev.
Libyan authorities have announced that a damaged Russian tanker in the Mediterranean Sea will be towed to a Libyan port.
After drifting for nearly three weeks, the vessel entered Libya's search and rescue zone. Italian authorities are collaborating with Libya to bring the tanker to shore, aiming to mitigate pollution risks.
On Wednesday, leaders from Italy, Spain, Malta, Greece, and Cyprus issued a joint letter to the European Commission. They emphasized the “imminent and serious risk” of an ecological disaster and requested activation of the EU’s civil protection mechanism.
The letter called for a coordinated EU response to quickly mobilize resources, highlighting the tanker's hazardous condition and cargo. It also pointed out the broader risks associated with vessels that fail to comply with international standards, posing threats to maritime safety and the Mediterranean environment.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
