Russian sanctioned LNG transport ships avoid the Mediterranean Sea

Golden Ten Data, March 6 – After a vessel was reportedly attacked by a Ukrainian drone boat, Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers under U.S. sanctions are rerouting to avoid the Mediterranean Sea. Compiled tracking data shows that at least three tankers—accounting for nearly one-fifth of the total fleet used to transport fuel from sanctioned Russian LNG export projects—have already changed course to leave or avoid the Mediterranean. The data also indicates that a fourth vessel has stopped sailing after entering the region via the Suez Canal. This will further complicate Moscow's efforts to expand exports and reduce its access to overseas funds. According to Moscow, earlier this month, the Arctic Metagaz, which had been used to transport sanctioned Russian LNG, was attacked by Ukraine near Malta. The crew has been evacuated, but satellite images show the hull is severely damaged.