Summary
Five southern European countries are seeking help to manage an unmanned Russian tanker drifting in the Mediterranean, which poses a serious environmental risk. The tanker, carrying liquefied natural gas, was damaged in a suspected attack and could lead to an ecological disaster if not handled quickly.
Key Facts
- Five European nations (Italy, Spain, Malta, Greece, and Cyprus) wrote to the European Commission seeking urgent help.
- The Russian tanker, Arctic Metagaz, is drifting in the Mediterranean Sea.
- The tanker carries liquefied natural gas and was damaged in a suspected drone attack.
- It is part of Russia's "shadow fleet," transporting fuels under sanctions.
- The leaders warned of a possible ecological disaster if the tanker explodes.
- Malta has restricted access by banning entry within 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) of the tanker.
- The leaders are pushing for a fast response at the European Council meeting.
- Crew members survived but the tanker is now without a crew and holds explosive cargo.
