Russia: Explosion Aboard Eco Wizard Tanker Sparks Ammonia Leak at Ust-Luga Port
An explosion aboard the Eco Wizard tanker at Russia’s Ust-Luga port on July 6 triggered a liquid ammonia leak. Raising fresh concerns over the safety of Russian maritime operations. According to the Russian Ministry of Transportation, the incident occurred during cargo handling operations and is now under investigation.
This marks the sixth explosion involving Russian-linked tankers since the beginning of 2025. Underscoring the growing risks associated with Moscow’s suspected shadow fleet.
A Mysterious Explosion at Ust-Luga
Authorities stated that a “minor leak of liquid ammonia” occurred while the Eco Wizard, a newly built LPG tanker, was being loaded and unloaded. The ship had arrived at Ust-Luga on July 3 from Antwerp, Belgium, and was flying the flag of the Marshall Islands.
Russian news outlet Baza, via its Telegram channel, reported that an “explosion of unknown origin” preceded the leak. Emergency services halted port operations and were placed on high alert. The vessel’s 23-member crew was evacuated, and no casualties have been reported. Russian Transportation Minister Roman Starovoit held an emergency meeting, and a diving inspection of the vessel is scheduled.
Suspected Shadow Fleet Tanker
Built in 2024, the Eco Wizard is designed to carry liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Despite sailing under the Marshall Islands flag, it is suspected to be part of Russia’s shadow fleet, a network of tankers allegedly used to bypass international sanctions.
Just a week earlier, another suspected shadow fleet vessel, the Vilamoura, suffered an explosion shortly after visiting Russian ports. The ship had been transporting 1 million barrels of oil at the time.
The Eco Wizard is now the sixth tanker associated with Russia to suffer an onboard explosion since the start of the year. The growing number of incidents highlights increased scrutiny on the operational and safety standards of Russia-linked maritime assets.
