Libyan authorities are towing a damaged Russian tanker that had been drifting in the Mediterranean Sea for nearly three weeks after a suspected drone attack, officials said Tuesday.
The vessel, Arctic Metagaz, is being moved to a safer area off the coast of Zuwara to avoid any possible environmental damage.
The tanker is part of Russia’s so-called shadow fleet, which is used to transport fossil fuels despite international sanctions linked to the war in Ukraine. It was carrying liquefied natural gas at the time of the incident.
Destroyed
gas tanker “Arctic Metagaz” towed to Misrata
#Libya pic.twitter.com/PCk2djh5vy
— C4H10FO2P
(@markito0171) March 24, 2026
According to Libya’s coast guard, the vessel is being towed slowly by a tugboat using a heavy rope. Video shared by authorities shows the tanker leaning to one side, with parts of its hull blackened by fire damage.
The incident began earlier this month when the tanker was hit by what Russian officials described as Ukrainian naval drones near Malta waters.
The attack caused serious damage to the ship. All 30 crew members on board were rescued safely. Ukraine has not commented on the claim.
حصري لـ 17PRESS: فرقة الاقتحام التابعة لوزارة الدفاع تسحب الناقلة الروسية إلى منطقة آمنة قرب سواحل زوارة.#ليبيا #17PRESS pic.twitter.com/eyBVy4yBZN
— 17 PRESS (@17Pressly) March 24, 2026
Libya’s Maritime Authority earlier said the tanker experienced sudden explosions followed by a large fire…
Full report available at the source: