Malta, a popular destination for vacations, is facing a potential “major ecological crisis.” A burnt Russian ghost ship, known as the Arctic Metagaz, is drifting unmanned towards the island, approximately 50 nautical miles southwest of Malta. The vessel was attacked by Ukrainian drones two weeks ago and has been slowly moving closer to Malta ever since.
Multiple European countries have raised concerns about an impending ecological disaster. Seven nations have written to the European Commission, highlighting the precarious state of the ship and its specialized cargo as a significant risk. They described the situation as a “dual challenge” involving maritime safety and the prevention of an ecological catastrophe amidst EU sanctions.
Russia has accused Ukraine of using uncrewed sea drones to target the Metagaz in the Mediterranean Sea. The vessel, part of Moscow’s shadow fleet, had been sanctioned by the US and the European Union. The ship, carrying gas, heavy oil, and diesel fuel, poses a serious pollution threat, prompting close monitoring by authorities in Malta and Italy.
WWF Italy has warned that a potential spill from the vessel could lead to fires, cryogenic clouds harmful to marine life, and widespread pollution of water and air. The affected area is ecologically valuable, hosting fragile deep-sea ecosystems and rich biodiversity in the Mediterranean region.
Salvage experts are preparing in Malta for the arrival of the ship in Maltese waters, while a specialized vessel is en route. Initial reports suggest that the ship sank after explosions onboard, with all crew members, mainly Russians, found safe in a lifeboat by Malta’s armed forces.
Despite conflicting reports, the wreck is reportedly still afloat according to Maltese authorities. Russia has stated that further involvement in resolving the situation will depend on specific circumstances. The vessel, carrying various types of fuel and natural gas, has no crew aboard, raising concerns about an environmental disaster.
Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova emphasized the responsibility of coastal countries in resolving the drifting vessel situation to prevent an environmental crisis. The shipowner and Russia’s involvement will be determined by the circumstances at hand.
