Russian authorities have published new images of the LNG carrier Arctic Metagaz which Moscow claims was struck by Ukrainian unmanned surface and underwater drones in the Mediterranean Sea in early March, causing severe damage and a fire onboard.
According to RIA Novosti on Monday, the Investigative Committee of Russia carried out a detailed examination of the vessel, documenting “traces of fire,” the “complete destruction of the ship’s control systems,” and damage to two of its LNG storage tanks, according to statements attributed to spokesperson Svetlana Petrenko.
The widely sanctioned Arctic Metagaz, believed to be a part of Russia’s shadow fleet, was carrying Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) when, on March 3, Moscow claimed that it had been attacked and sunk – and accused Ukraine of being responsible.
The Russian defense ministry also said an explosion and fire followed onboard, though all 30 crew members – Russian nationals – were later rescued, with two sailors reported injured.
At the time of the incident, Transport Malta said the ship was adrift and not under command near the waters between Malta and Lampedusa, according to earlier maritime alerts.
Transport Malta issued warnings to nearby vessels as the damaged tanker drifted in international waters close to the central Mediterranean shipping routes.
Russian officials have described the incident as an act of “international terrorism” and “maritime piracy,” while also alleging involvement or negligence by EU member states.
Independent verification of the circumstances surrounding the incident remains limited, and the sequence of events leading to the vessel’s abandonment has not been fully established.
Kyiv has not publicly responded to the allegations.