Italy Monitors Damaged Russian LNG Tanker Drifting in Mediterranean

Italian authorities are considering how to handle a damaged Russian liquefied natural gas tanker, Arctic Metagaz, which is drifting in international waters in the Mediterranean Sea after an alleged drone strike. The vessel, carrying LNG from Murmansk in northern Russia, was reportedly attacked by Ukrainian naval drones, though Ukraine has not claimed responsibility.

The tanker remains afloat between Malta and the Italian islands of Lampedusa and Linosa, with the Italian Navy and support vessels escorting it while monitoring the situation. All 30 crew members were evacuated after the attack, and officials say the ship’s hull is still intact, although it suffered significant damage above the waterline.

Italian officials are reluctant to allow the tanker to dock at their ports due to safety concerns, describing it as a potential hazard because of the gas it carries. Authorities are considering options, including having the ship’s Russian operator hire a specialist company to tow it away, while nearby countries continue to monitor the drifting vessel.

Pic courtesy: google/ images are subject to copyright