The Ukrainian Armed Forces have attacked a Russian gas carrier in the Mediterranean Sea using unmanned boats, Russia’s Ministry of Transport reported.

According to the ministry, the incident occurred on March 3 near the territorial waters of the EU member state of the Republic of Malta. The vessel targeted was the Arctic Metagas, a tanker sailing from Murmansk with cargo documented in full compliance with international regulations.

Officials said the strike was launched from the Libyan coast. Thirty people were on board at the time of the attack, and all crew members were safely rescued.

The Ministry of Transport described the incident as an act of international terrorism. It also stated that the attack took place with the acquiescence of EU authorities and stressed that the international community should not leave the episode without a response.