The Arctic Metagaz, a LNG transport tanker under U.S., EU, and UK sanctions, has caught fire in the Mediterranean Sea. Reports indicate that the vessel was ablaze near Malta, although some media sources suggest it was closer to the Libyan coast. The wreck is currently located about 130 nautical miles north of the Libyan port of Sirte, within an area that falls under Libyan maritime search and rescue jurisdiction. Tracking data showed that the tanker had reported its position off Malta a day before the incident occurred.

At 23 years old, the vessel was previously owned by the Norwegian company Bergesen, known as Berge Everett. Now registered under the Liberian flag and owned by Lathyrus Shipping Company, the ship has undergone multiple name and flag changes throughout its operational history. The involvement of military drones in this incident highlights escalating tensions in the region, linking the incident to the ongoing geopolitical conflict between Russia and Ukraine which has implications for maritime safety and security.

This incident raises concerns regarding the safety of shipping routes in the Mediterranean, particularly in light of military actions in Libya. If confirmed that Ukrainian forces are involved, this would represent a significant escalation of the conflict as it extends beyond traditional battlefields and into international waters. The situation continues to be monitored closely by maritime authorities and military, as they assess the impact on shipping and regional stability.