Ukrainian Forces in Libya Strike Russian LNG Tanker
Libyan officials report that Ukrainian forces, operating under a covert Western-backed deal with the Tripoli government, launched a drone attack on the Russian-flagged tanker Arctic Metagaz in March. The vessel, carrying 61,000 tons of liquefied natural gas and part of Russia's shadow fleet, was severely damaged near Maltese waters by Sea Baby drones launched from a facility in Tripoli. All 30 crew members were rescued, but the ship has since drifted out of control off the Libyan coast due to harsh weather. This operation highlights Ukraine's expanding military innovation and its use of North African territory to target Russian energy assets violating international sanctions. The deployment is linked to a broader political proposal involving U.S. adviser Massad Boulos aimed at resolving Libya's decade-long division between the Tripoli-based government and the eastern administration.
Wire timeline
Ukrainian Forces in Libya Strike Russian LNG Tanker
Libyan officials report that Ukrainian forces, operating under a covert Western-backed deal with the Tripoli government, launched a drone attack on the Russian-flagged tanker Arctic Metagaz in March. The vessel, carrying 61,000 tons of liquefied natural gas and part of Russia's shadow fleet, was severely damaged near Maltese waters by Sea Baby drones launched from a facility in Tripoli. All 30 crew members were rescued, but the ship has since drifted out of control off the Libyan coast due to harsh weather. This operation highlights Ukraine's expanding military innovation and its use of North African territory to target Russian energy assets violating international sanctions. The deployment is linked to a broader political proposal involving U.S. adviser Massad Boulos aimed at resolving Libya's decade-long division between the Tripoli-based government and the eastern administration.
AP News