European Ports Reject Damaged Cargo Ship Carrying Explosive Russian Fertilizer Amid Safety Concerns

European ports are facing a significant dilemma as they refuse to allow a severely damaged cargo ship to dock due to its hazardous cargo: a massive load of Russian fertilizer, specifically ammonium nitrate, which has raised alarms among officials. The MV Ruby, a 600-foot vessel registered in Malta and owned by Ruby Enterprise, has been described by a foreign ambassador as a "floating megabomb" due to its precarious situation.

The ship, laden with 20,000 pounds of ammonium nitrate, has sparked fears reminiscent of the catastrophic explosion at the Port of Beirut in 2020, where a much smaller quantity of the same chemical caused widespread devastation, resulting in 190 fatalities and over $15 billion in damages, according to the New York Times.

Currently stranded off the southeastern coast of England, the Ruby has been unable to find a port willing to accept it for repairs. The vessel, which departed from the Russian port of Kandalaksha in August, encountered difficulties shortly after setting sail, running aground and sustaining significant damage that has left it limping along the northern European coastline.

Lithuania's foreign minister, Gabrielius Landsbergis, expressed concerns about the potential for sabotage, especially given the ship's Russian origins. He stated, "When we are dealing with Russia or other international actors that are unfriendly to us, we always keep this possibility in mind." This sentiment has been echoed by other European leaders, leading to the ship's continued limbo.

After being detained by Norwegian port officials on September 1 for inspection, it was revealed that the Ruby had sustained damage to its rudder, propeller, and hull. Fortunately, the cargo was reportedly unaffected. However, the ship's precarious state has led to widespread reluctance among ports to accept it, fearing the consequences of an explosion.

Attempts to dock in Lithuania were also thwarted, despite the absence of evidence suggesting malicious intent. The Baltic nation opted to prioritize safety over potential risks, echoing the decisions made by Malta, which stated the Ruby could only dock if it offloaded its dangerous cargo.

As the ship continues to float off the coast, British authorities have yet to respond to its request for docking to transfer the ammonium nitrate to another vessel for repairs. The Ruby's situation highlights the ongoing tensions and safety concerns surrounding maritime transport of hazardous materials, particularly in the context of geopolitical tensions with Russia.

The Ruby's plight serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by explosive cargo and the intricate balance between international shipping and safety protocols in an increasingly volatile world.