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Russian Ship Carrying Nuclear Reactors to North Korea Sank Off Spain in 2024
A CNN investigation found that the Ursa Major sank in 2024 with a hole in its bow and damaged metal facing inward. The sinking occurred months after North Korea began assisting Russia in its war against Ukraine. Satellite images showed a bridge linking Russia and North Korea nearing completion at the time.
May 13, 7:17 AM·1m read1 source
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A Russian ship reportedly carrying two nuclear reactors bound for North Korea sank in 2024 off the coast of Spain, a CNN investigation reported on May 13, 2026. The vessel, the Ursa Major, had a hole in its bow with the damaged metal facing inward, suggesting a potential strike from inside the ship, according to the report.
The sinking took place several months after North Korea began assisting Russia in its war against Ukraine.
Satellite images showed that a bridge connecting Russia to North Korea was nearing completion around the time of the sinking. The development reflected closer ties between the two countries. The CNN report stated that the sinking happened in mysterious circumstances.
No further details on the cause of the sinking were provided in the investigation. Despite reported concerns from China, ties between North Korea and Russia have continued to develop. An expert said North Korea’s ties with Russia look to continue beyond any end to the Ukraine war.
