A Russian cargo ship carrying 20 tons of potentially explosive fertilizer is causing alarm as it seeks a port in Europe. The cargo, primarily ammonium nitrate, has raised concerns due to its connection with the devastating 2020 Beirut explosion.
The Danger Aboard
The vessel, MV Ruby, is loaded with 20 tons of ammonium nitrate, a chemical often used in fertilizers but also known for its explosive potential. In 2020, a much smaller quantity of the same substance led to a catastrophic explosion in Beirut, killing over 190 people and devastating the city’s port.
Given the dangerous nature of the cargo, European ports are refusing the ship entry. Authorities are concerned that the fertilizer might pose a risk similar to the Beirut explosion, making it a “floating bomb” in the eyes of some.
Failed Docking Attempts
The ship set sail from Russia’s Kandalaksha Port in August, but shortly after, it ran aground, sustaining damage. Since then, several European ports have denied the vessel permission to dock. Ruby Enterprise, the company operating the ship, has struggled to find a port willing to allow the cargo transfer.
Despite assurances from Norwegian officials that the ship’s cargo is not currently at risk of exploding, no country has agreed to allow repairs or unloading. The situation is further complicated by ongoing political tensions involving Russia.
Concerns Mount as Ship Nears UK
Most recently, the ship was spotted off the coast of Kent, in southeast England. Local authorities are closely monitoring the situation, but no decision has yet been made on how to handle the volatile cargo.
For now, the fate of the 20-ton “floating bomb” remains uncertain, leaving many to wonder where it will be allowed to dock.
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