Russian Cargo Ship Sinks in Mediterranean After Explosions

The vessel's owner claims a 'terrorist act' caused the sinking, leaving two crew members missing while 14 were rescued.

The Ursa Major, a Russian cargo ship linked to the defense ministry, sank in international waters between Spain and Algeria on December 24, 2024.
The ship's owner, Oboronlogistika, alleged that three consecutive explosions caused the sinking, describing the incident as a 'terrorist act' without providing evidence or naming suspects.
Two crew members are reported missing, while 14 were rescued and brought to the Spanish port of Cartagena by local maritime services.
The ship, under U.S. sanctions since 2022 for ties to Russia's military, was reportedly transporting heavy cranes and equipment from St. Petersburg to Vladivostok.
Spanish authorities and Russian investigators have launched inquiries into the incident, but independent verification of the owner's claims remains unavailable.