Arctic Metagaz, a russian-flagged liquefied natural gas (LNG) tanker, is ablaze in the Mediterranean, with the status of its crew still unconfirmed, Reuters reported, citing Shipping and maritime security sources.
Ship-tracking data from MarineTraffic shows the sanctioned vessel last reported its position on Monday while sailing off the coast of Malta. The ship is subject to both US and UK sanctions.
One source, speaking without providing evidence, suggested the vessel may have been struck by a naval drone, with Ukraine suspected of carrying out the operation.
Requests for comment sent to the vessel’s russia-based manager (LLC SMP Techmanagement), russian LNG producer Novatek, and russia’s transport ministry went unanswered as of Tuesday. The Security Service of Ukraine also did not immediately respond to a separate request for comment.
Footage of a burning russian gas tanker has been published online.
