Russia Reports Discovery of Mines on LPG Carrier at Ust-Luga Port

Russian authorities reported that two magnetic mines were discovered attached to the hull of an LPG carrier that arrived at the Baltic port of Ust-Luga from Belgium, raising new concerns about maritime security in the region.

According to Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB), the Liberian-flagged LPG tanker Arrhenius arrived at Ust-Luga on May 20 and underwent a routine underwater inspection as part of enhanced security measures implemented at Russian ports. During the inspection, divers reportedly found suspicious magnetic devices attached near the vessel’s engine room. Further examination by a specialized explosives team confirmed that the devices were mines containing explosive material.

Russian officials stated that the mines were safely removed and neutralized without causing damage to the vessel or injuries to the crew. Authorities have opened a criminal investigation and are examining the devices to determine their origin and how they were attached to the ship.

The Arrhenius had previously called at Antwerp, Belgium, before sailing to Ust-Luga. Reports indicated that the vessel spent time anchored offshore due to delays at the terminal before proceeding with cargo operations. Russian investigators believe the devices were not attached while the vessel was in Russian waters, although no independent confirmation has been released regarding where or when the mines were placed.