A Russian cargo ship nicknamed the "floating bomb" is set to dock at a UK port today after being denied entry across Europe due to its dangerous cargo. The ship, the Ruby, carries 20,000 tonnes of ammonium nitrate—over seven times the amount that caused the devastating Beirut explosion in 2020.
The Ruby was first seen near Kent in September after leaving Tromsø, Norway, where it was refused entry over safety concerns just three days after docking. Bound for Malta, the Ruby picked up its explosive cargo in northern Russia on August 22 before heading toward the Canary Islands.
The UK Government and the Department for Transport have cleared the MV Ruby to enter British waters. Following a meeting with Shipping Minister Mike Kane, MP Sir Roger Gale reassured constituents near Kent that the cargo posed no security threat, noting the ship isn’t Russian-owned or flagged, so no sanctions are breached.
The Ruby requires repairs to its propeller, hull, and rudder, which must wait until the cargo is unloaded. Although it sustained storm damage, it remains seaworthy but was ordered to leave Tromsø as local concerns grew.
Source:
The Metro
