The Russian LNG carrier Arctic Metagaz sank after explosions near Malta

A Russian LNG carrier, Arctic Metagaz, reportedly sank on 4 March in the central Mediterranean between Libya and Malta after several sudden explosions followed by a major fire. Tracking data cited by Kpler indicates the vessel departed Murmansk on 24 February and was en route to Port Said, Egypt. The ship may be the former BW Everett, previously operated by GDF Suez. Russian and Maltese authorities said all 30 crew members were rescued safely. Libya’s ports and maritime transport authority located the wreck about 130 nautical miles north of Sirte. Mariners were advised to avoid the area due to the risk of LNG or fuel leaks and broader marine pollution. Moscow alleges the tanker was struck by Ukrainian naval drones launched from the Libyan coast, but only Russian and Libyan authorities have publicly commented so far. Given the limited independent confirmation, the cause and attribution of the incident remain uncertain, amid reports the vessel was linked to Russia’s “shadow fleet” for sanctioned hydrocarbons.

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