Baghdad: A Russian liquefied natural gas tanker was attacked near Malta's territorial waters, Russia's Transport Ministry said Wednesday, blaming unmanned Ukrainian boats for the strike. The ministry stated that the tanker Artic Metagas was targeted Tuesday off Libya's coast. According to Anadolu Agency, the vessel was en route from the northwestern Russian port of Murmansk and was carrying cargo 'cleared in accordance with all international regulations.' The ministry classified the incident as an act of international terrorism and maritime piracy, describing it as a gross violation of international maritime law. The statement from the ministry further alleged that such acts were carried out with the 'connivance of the authorities of European Union member states' and called for the international community to take notice. Ukraine has not commented on Russia's claims.