A Russian natural gas carrier sank in the Mediterranean Sea near Libya. Russia claims the ship was attacked by Ukrainian drones, triggering an explosion and a severe fire.
On 4 Mar 2026, Libyan authorities revealed that the Russian natural gas carrier "Arctic Metagas" sank in the Mediterranean Sea between Libya’s coast and the nearby country of Malta. All 30 crew members aboard were safe and have been rescued.
Libya's port authority stated that the "Arctic Metagas" suddenly exploded while traveling north of the port city of Sirte, followed by a severe fire, which ultimately led to the vessel's complete sinking on Tuesday night local time.
The Libyan port authority also reported that the ship sent multiple distress signals to port officials and the navy late Tuesday night. Malta’s navy confirmed receiving the distress call and was able to pinpoint the ship’s geographic location.
Meanwhile, Russia’s Ministry of Transport issued a statement accusing Ukraine of attacking the gas carrier with drone boats from Libya’s coast. Moscow stated that the vessel was fully loaded and had departed from Murmansk port in northern Russia.
The Ukrainian military has yet to comment on the incident.
Follow international news:https://www.thairath.co.th/news/foreign
Source:euronews