Russian tanker adrift in Mediterranean poses 'imminent and serious' threat, EU states say

A Russian natural gas tanker drifting in the Mediterranean Sea has been declared an "imminent and serious" ecological threat by several European Union member states. The vessel appears to be without power or control, creating risks of a potential spill that could devastate marine ecosystems and coastal areas across the region. European officials are treating this as an environmental emergency, as natural gas tankers carry highly volatile cargo that poses both explosion and pollution risks. The Mediterranean's enclosed nature means any major spill could spread rapidly to multiple countries' coastlines, affecting tourism, fishing industries, and fragile marine habitats. Authorities are likely coordinating rescue and containment efforts while the vessel remains adrift in one of Europe's most economically and environmentally sensitive waterways.