The Russian vessel Ursa Major sank in the Mediterranean following a powerful explosion on board. Fourteen crew members were rescued, while two remain missing.
According to reports from Ukrainian military intelligence and Spanish sources, the ship was en route to Syria, allegedly transporting Russian military equipment being withdrawn after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. However, some Russian sources claim the cargo included materials for constructing a nuclear-powered ship in Vladivostok.
The Ursa Major went down in international waters between Spain and Algeria due to engine explosions. Rescued crew members have been transported to Spain.
This incident follows a series of losses for the Russian navy in the Black Sea, attributed to Ukrainian drone and missile strikes. It also comes amid Russia’s retreat from strategic positions in Syria following a swift rebel offensive that toppled Assad’s regime.
