Maritime Authorities Warn Mariners To Avoid Crewless Russian Tanker Drifting Between Italy And Malta

Maritime authorities have issued urgent warnings for vessels to steer clear of a crewless Russian fuel tanker drifting in the Mediterranean Sea between Italy and Malta after an alleged drone attack, amid mounting fears of an environmental disaster The 277‑meter Russian‑flagged tanker the Arctic Metagaz has been adrift for days with no crew on board after what Moscow described as an attack by Ukrainian naval drones launched from near the Libyan coast in early March. Italian and Maltese authorities have been monitoring the stricken vessel, which is reported to be carrying hazardous materials, including diesel fuel and liquefied natural gas (LNG) in its still‑intact hull.

Maritime agencies have warned other ships to maintain a safe distance, citing collision risks and the danger posed by the tanker’s precarious condition as it drifts uncontrolled in international waters. According to a letter from Italy, France and several other EU member states, the vessel represents an “imminent and serious ecological threat” due to its unstable state and hazardous cargo, which could trigger devastating marine pollution if ruptured. The tanker is believed to be part of Russia’s so‑called “shadow fleet,” a collection of ageing vessels used to transport oil and gas in ways that skirt Western sanctions imposed after Russia’s full‑scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. EU officials say they face a dilemma: intervene to prevent an environmental crisis or risk undermining sanctions enforcement by engaging the vessel directly. Last week, Italy’s authorities confirmed that the tanker was attacked near the Libyan coast, though Ukraine has neither confirmed nor claimed responsibility. The entire crew of 30 was safely evacuated by Maltese forces shortly after the attack. Experts warn that the tanker’s volatile cargo potentially including tens of thousands of tonnes of LNG and fuel could cause catastrophic marine and atmospheric pollution if the hull fails. Environmental groups have stressed that the Mediterranean’s rich biodiversity would face severe damage in the event of a spill. European nations are urging coordinated international action to tow or secure the vessel, though logistical and legal challenges remain.