The Arctic Metagaz, a sanctioned Russian tanker loaded with liquid natural gas, is currently drifting out of control in the Mediterranean. With no crew on board and a gaping hole in its side, concerns have been raised about the 'serious risk of a major ecological disaster'. An Italian official called the vessel an 'environmental bomb' waiting to detonate.
Initial reports suggested the tanker was sunk after a suspected sea drone attack near Maltese waters earlier this month, but it has since been found drifting. The tanker is part of a shadow fleet transporting sanctioned oil and gas from Russia, a situation complicated by ongoing geopolitical tensions.
As the Arctic Metagaz approaches Libya, Italian and Maltese officials are continuing to monitor its movement closely. Alfredo Mantovano, Italy's Council of Ministers secretary, indicated that the risks from the tanker are 'enormous', noting that it could explode at any moment due to the flammable contents it carries.
Originally departing from Murmansk, Russia, in February, the Arctic Metagaz was affected by a series of explosions and fires, leading to its current derelict state. The World Wildlife Fund has expressed its alarm, warning that a spill could lead to fires and long-lasting pollution in a region of high ecological importance.
As the tanker floats further from Italian waters, the urgency to address the situation escalates with international voices calling for immediate action to prevent a potential disaster in the Mediterranean ecosystem.
