A Russian-flagged LNG tanker damaged by suspected Ukrainian drone strikes is drifting in the Mediterranean, prompting nine EU nations to warn of an imminent ecological disaster. The Arctic Metagaz, carrying 450 tonnes of heavy fuel and 250 tonnes of diesel, was attacked off Libya earlier this month and remains in a precarious condition.

EU leaders have urged the European Commission to coordinate swift action as the vessel drifts between Malta and Italy's Lampedusa island. The fire-damaged ship poses both environmental risks and sanctions enforcement challenges, highlighting the dangers of Russia's so-called shadow fleet. These vessels routinely use deceptive methods to evade Western restrictions on Russian energy exports.

Ukraine's security services have previously targeted Russian vessels in the Mediterranean, including an attack on the Qendil oil tanker in December. Moscow has blamed Kyiv for the Arctic Metagaz incident, with Russian officials claiming explosions and gas leaks are audible on board. The standoff underscores growing tensions over maritime security and energy sanctions enforcement in European waters.