The sunken Russian vessel could have been carrying nuclear components for North Korea: what is known.

According to ТСН: The sunken ship 'Big Bear' may have been transporting nuclear components.

This was stated by Vadim Kushnikov, an expert from the 'Militarny' portal. He emphasized that data from open sources indicate a worsening of cooperation between Russia and North Korea in the field of technologies used for creating atomic submarines.

“We can correlate the data and information available from open sources, specifically the report from South Korean intelligence that indicates collaboration between Russia and North Korea is being intensified, particularly regarding technologies used to construct atomic submarines,” he noted.

Kushnikov also added that Russia has engaged reconnaissance vessels to the accident site, allowing for certain conclusions to be drawn.

Incident Circumstances

The incident occurred approximately 60 nautical miles from the Spanish city of Cartagena. The ship suddenly lost power and sank. During the initial inspection of the debris, investigators found a hole in the hull that does not conform to standard technical failure.

Spanish experts believe the vessel may have been hit by an external object, including a torpedo. This version is currently being considered as one of the main possibilities, although there are no official confirmations yet.

In 2024, it was reported that an explosion occurred in the engine room of the ship, causing it to list. Fourteen crew members were rescued and taken to the port of Cartagena, while two individuals are considered missing. The ship was also referred to as a 'bulk carrier' intended for the evacuation of Russian bases in Syria.

If the fact of transporting nuclear components to North Korea is confirmed, it could represent a serious violation of international sanctions imposed on North Korea and indicate clandestine cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang.

Analysts note that the use of a 'shadow fleet' allows Russia to disguise routes, cargoes, and ultimate recipients, avoiding international scrutiny. The incident near Spain may draw NATO and EU attention to dangerous shipments in the Mediterranean Sea.

The investigation is ongoing, and its results may have serious repercussions not only for Russia and North Korea but also for the entire global security system.