Ukraine war briefing: Russia claims LNG tanker in Mediterranean hit by drones

Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of attacking the Arctic Metagaz, a Russian LNG tanker, which reportedly exploded and sank in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Libya on Tuesday night. Russia's transport ministry claimed Ukrainian drones launched from Libya caused the damage. Simultaneously, Ukrainian drones allegedly damaged civilian sites in Russia's Saratov region, leading to temporary airport closures and three injuries. Amidst these events, a potential energy crisis stemming from Middle East tensions could benefit Russia economically, while a slowdown in Western arms supplies to Ukraine could further aid Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy mentioned potential future talks with Washington and Moscow regarding the war, contingent on the Middle East situation. Ukraine also announced a boycott of the Paralympics opening ceremony due to Russian athlete participation, joined by several other countries.

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