Russia said Monday that its security services prevented a suspected terrorist attack involving a mined gas tanker arriving from Belgium. Russian authorities claimed explosive devices were discovered on the vessel at the port of Ust-Luga. The incident has heightened tensions amid ongoing security concerns linked to the Russia-West confrontation.
According to Russia’s Federal Security Service, the devices resembled maritime magnetic mines allegedly manufactured using components from a NATO country. The agency said experts believed the mines were installed outside Russian territorial waters. Officials added that the vessel had remained anchored for more than a day before unloading cargo at Antwerp port.
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The FSB claimed the tanker’s extended stop in Antwerp occurred because of a dockworkers’ strike. Russian investigators said the suspicious devices could not have been attached while the vessel operated inside Russian waters. Authorities have not publicly identified those allegedly responsible for the incident.
Russia’s Investigative Committee has opened a criminal case involving attempted terrorism and illegal trafficking of explosive devices. Officials said investigators are examining the source of the mines and possible international connections. The incident comes amid rising maritime security concerns linked to the broader geopolitical standoff between Russia and Western countries.
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Neither Belgian authorities nor NATO immediately responded publicly to Russia’s allegations. Independent verification of Moscow’s claims has not yet been reported. The investigation into the tanker incident remains ongoing.