Libya tows abandoned Russian tanker from its coast

The Libyan coastguard has begun towing away the damaged Russian tanker Arctic Metagaz, which has drifted unmanned in the Mediterranean for several weeks, raising fears of an environmental disaster.

The vessel, carrying liquefied natural gas, was hit by Ukrainian naval drones as recently as early March, according to Russian authorities. It subsequently reached the Libyan coast near the town of Zuwara.

Several EU states, including Italy, France and Spain, have warned the European Commission that the tanker poses a serious environmental risk.

However, Libyan authorities say the situation is under control for now. According to the National Oil Company, there has been no cargo spill and there is no imminent risk of an environmental disaster.

At the same time, Tripoli is coordinating further action with Russian and Maltese partners. The final destination of the tanker is not yet known, but authorities say they are doing their utmost to ensure the safety of the coast and shipping.

The circumstances of the attack remain unclear, with no official response from Kyiv or Libya.

(reuters, pir)