A Russian Ship with Nuclear Reactors for North Korea Sank: What Happened near Spain

Incident with the Ship Ursa Major

According to Главком: On December 22, 2024, near the Spanish port of Cartagena, a Russian cargo ship Ursa Major sank while carrying two VM-4SG type nuclear reactors. This cargo was intended for North Korea. The ship departed from Saint Petersburg on December 11, 2024, and was expected to arrive at the port of Vladivostok on January 22, 2025.

According to reports, Spanish authorities detected a change in the ship's course on the day of its sinking. At the time of the accident, seismographs recorded vibrations that could indicate an underwater explosion. A hole was found in the hull of the ship, suggesting external damage. Following the incident, the Russian landing ship 'Ivan Gren' demanded that Spanish vessels move away from the accident zone.

Consequences for International Security

The Ursa Major sank at a depth of about 2500 meters, with its cargo including two 45-ton covers for the nuclear reactors and two 380-ton mobile port cranes Liebherr 420. This incident has raised significant concerns in the international community as it relates to the transportation of nuclear technologies.

The sinking of the Ursa Major could have serious consequences for security in the region, as nuclear reactors in the hands of North Korea could lead to new tensions in international relations. The incident also highlights the risks associated with the transport of dangerous cargo and the possibility of terrorist acts at sea. It is expected that international organizations and states will pay attention to this situation in order to prevent similar incidents in the future.