Russian gas tanker drifting in the Mediterranean may explode, threatening environmental disaster
Russian gas tanker drifting in the Mediterranean may explode, threatening environmental disaster
Drifting in International Waters
A 277-meter Russian gas vessel, the Arctic Metagaz, has been adrift in the Mediterranean Sea for over two weeks following a series of explosions. The ship’s erratic movement has sparked worries among coastal nations and environmental advocates. Despite its location in international waters, the risk of an environmental catastrophe looms as the tanker continues to pose a potential threat.
Cause of the Incident
Moscow attributes the damage to Ukrainian maritime drones, claiming the ship is part of an authorised “shadow fleet.” However, Kiev has not confirmed or denied these allegations. Aerial imagery after the attack reveals a massive crack spanning dozens of meters near the waterline, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Current Situation and Risks
Libyan authorities initially classified the Arctic Metagaz as a wreck on March 4, unaware of the ongoing damage. At the time of evacuation, 30 crew members—mostly Russians and Filipinos—abandoned the ship after explosions on March 3. Russian officials report that explosions are still audible, with gas emissions and localized fires persisting in some sections. The ship now carries 450 tonnes of fuel oil, 250 tonnes of diesel, and substantial natural gas reserves, amplifying the danger of a catastrophic event.
“Moscow controls the situation as the flag state,” stated Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. “Yet international norms assign responsibility for environmental prevention to coastal nations.”
Diplomatic Concerns
The Arctic Metagaz is currently navigating between Malta and the Italian islands of Lampedusa and Linosa. Its position in international waters complicates efforts to assign accountability for intervention. European governments, including Italy and France, have jointly urged the European Commission to address the “immediate and serious danger” to the region. Rescue teams in Malta remain on standby, prepared to act if the ship approaches their territorial waters.
Environmental Impact
Environmentalists have dubbed the Arctic Metagaz a “floating time bomb,” warning of long-term ecological harm to the Mediterranean’s ecologically rich zones. Experts caution that the damaged hull and ongoing internal processes make the crisis unpredictable. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) underscores that contamination could have repercussions for years to come.
