The Norwegian-flagged ship Oslo Carrier 3 has come under scrutiny after refusing to rescue Russian sailors from the distressed cargo ship Ursa Major as it sank in the Mediterranean Sea. According to the press service of the Russian ship's owner, Oboronlogistika, the refusal to take on board the crew has been labeled as a violation of international maritime law.
The incident unfolded on December 23, when the Ursa Major, which was sailing from St. Petersburg to Vladivostok, reported distress after suffering explosions believed to be the result of a terrorist attack. The explosions led to the fishing vessel sinking approximately 67 miles from the Spanish coast and about 45 miles from Algeria. Of the 16 crew members aboard, 14 were rescued, but two remain missing.
After the distress call was made, the Russian sailors attempted to reach the Oslo Carrier 3, which was nearby. Unfortunately, the Norwegian vessel, even though part of its crew spoke Russian, refused to assist the sailors, citing some unspecified prohibition. This led to accusations from Oboronlogistika, emphasizing the ship’s actions as "a gross violation of Article 10 of the International Convention on Salvage of 1989." This article mandates the obligation to assist vessels and their crews when they are stranded or sinking.
Reports indicate the Ursa Major sank following three successive explosions reported by its crew. The ship reportedly foundered after water breached its hull. The incidents prompted Spanish rescue efforts, culminating with the crew being saved by the Spanish vessel Salvamar Drago, which ferried them to safety at the port of Cartagena.
Dmitry Medvedev, Russia's Deputy Chairman of the Security Council, responded vehemently to the refusal of the Oslo Carrier 3 to rescue the Russian sailors. He has called for punitive measures against Europe, accusing it of fostering Russophobia. Medvedev stated on his Telegram channel, "This cannot be forgiven!" He described the ship's refusal to aid as unconscionable and emphasized the need for accountability from European nations.
The circumstances leading to the sinking of the Ursa Major are still unclear, particularly surrounding the allegations of it being attacked intentionally. Oboronlogistika insists the ship was targeted during its voyage, primarily associated with transport services for the Russian military's operations abroad, especially related to Syria. Following the incident, it sparked investigations by Russian authorities, who are now exploring potential breaches of maritime safety regulations tied to the sinking.
Despite the denials by the Oslo Carrier 3, Russian media have reported significant scrutiny over the Norwegian ship's actions during the rescue incident. The refusal has not just provoked outrage from Russian officials but has also raised questions about maritime law compliance and the obligations of vessels to provide aid at sea.
The Ursa Major, launched in 2009 and overtly affiliated with the Russian military, raised substantial concerns among international observers, particularly due to its past role supporting military logistics. The ship had previously transported supplies to Russian operations, including assisting Russian military interventions. The loss of the vessel has been appended with fears about the potential ramifications on Russia's military logistical operations and broader geopolitical tensions.
Spanish media reported the ship suffered significant structural failures following the explosion, corroborated by crew testimonies describing the ship taking on water abruptly. The focus is now pivoting toward ensuring all missing sailors are accounted for, with calls for comprehensive safety analyses to prevent future maritime tragedies.
After the incident, it is expected the international maritime community will revisit the obligations under maritime conventions, calling attention to the underlying issues of political ties and national mandates during rescue operations.
The refusal of the Oslo Carrier 3 to assist coupled with the dramatic sinking of the Ursa Major raises complex questions surrounding maritime law, international relations, and the treatment of nations facing rising tensions.
The incident marks not just a humanitarian issue but also serves as a harbinger of the geopolitical strains currently experienced between Russia and the West. With the backdrop of war, military logistics and preemptive actions at sea will likely become more precarious as nations navigate their legal obligations versus political sentiments.
The Ursa Major crew continues to be at the heart of this controversy, symbolizing the human cost of international politics played out on the waters of the Mediterranean.
