The vast shipping lanes of the Mediterranean are vital for global commerce and strategic military movements.
These waters, often bustling with trade and naval activity, have also become a stage for geopolitical tension.
When something as significant as a cargo ship sinking occurs, questions about its cause quickly arise.
On Monday night, the Russian cargo vessel Ursa Major sank off the coast of Spain following an explosion in its engine room, according to Hotnews.
The incident has been labeled an “act of terrorism” by its owner, Oboronlogistika, a company linked to Russia's Defense Ministry.
While no immediate evidence of foul play has been provided, the claim raises suspicions and concerns.
Details of the Incident
The explosion occurred around 12:30 a.m. local time as the ship navigated through the Strait of Gibraltar. The Ursa Major, built in 2009, was en route to Vladivostok with two massive port cranes on board.
The blast crippled the vessel, causing it to slow down and veer off course. Shortly after, it began to list and eventually sank.
Spanish maritime rescue services responded swiftly. A naval intervention ship, Clara Campoamor, joined another Russian vessel, Sparta, in rescuing 14 of the 16 crew members. Two sailors remain missing.
Allegations and Implications
Oboronlogistika has insisted the sinking was no accident. Without providing specifics, the company claimed the incident was a deliberate attack.
This accusation gains weight given the ship's past involvement in transporting military supplies to Russia’s naval base in Tartus, Syria.
If confirmed, such an act could signal escalating threats to Russian logistics operations in international waters.
