Russian LNG Tanker Sinks in Mediterranean Amid Rising Tensions

Russian LNG tanker sinks in Mediterranean after suspected drone strike

A Russian LNG tanker sinks in Mediterranean waters following explosions and a major fire, raising concerns about maritime security in the region. Russian authorities claim that naval drones launched from the Libyan coast caused the damage, though independent verification is not available.

The vessel, carrying roughly 62,000 tonnes of liquefied natural gas, sank about 130 nautical miles north of the Libyan port of Sirte. All 30 crew members were rescued safely by local forces. The tanker had been traveling from Murmansk, Russia, to Port Said, Egypt, and was part of a fleet often used to circumvent sanctions.

This incident marks a rare attack in the Mediterranean, highlighting that Russian LNG tanker operations in international waters remain at risk amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The sinking emphasizes the growing threats from uncrewed naval drones and the need for heightened maritime safety measures.