CNN: Mystery Russian ship sinking raises suspicions of North Korea nuclear transfer

A Russian cargo vessel, the Ursa Major, sank in mysterious circumstances in the Mediterranean Sea on December 23, 2024, about 60 miles off the coast of Spain, according to a CNN investigation. 

The report suggests the ship may have been carrying sensitive components linked to submarine nuclear reactors, potentially destined for North Korea.

The vessel reportedly suffered a series of explosions after initially slowing and deviating from its course. Spanish maritime authorities, cited in the investigation, recorded distress calls and later confirmed multiple blasts near the engine room, which killed two crew members and left the ship immobilised before it eventually sank.

Ship operator Oboronlogistics said it carried cranes, empty containers and heavy metal components listed as “manhole covers”. Investigators, reviewing loading footage and port records, suggested the cargo may have concealed reactor-related equipment.

Survivors were rescued in Cartagena and debriefed. The captain reportedly said the cargo may have included components of two submarine nuclear reactors, though he said he could not confirm the presence of nuclear fuel.

Portuguese and Spanish naval units tracked the vessel through European waters, while Russian escorts accompanied it. After the sinking, a Russian warship reportedly interfered with rescue operations before further explosions were detected over the wreck site.

US WC-135 “nuclear sniffer” aircraft conducted flights over the area, suggesting continued interest in potential radioactive traces. No public evidence of contamination has been confirmed.

Competing theories include an advanced torpedo strike or a limpet mine. Experts cited in the report said the damage could match a shaped-charge device, but no definitive conclusion has been reached.

The wreck now lies at about 2,500 metres depth. Spain has released limited information, while Russia calls it a targeted attack. The precise cargo and cause of sinking remain unverified.

By Aghakazim Guliyev