Russia Condemns Norway for Rescue Refusal

Dmitry Medvedev, Russia's Security Council deputy chairman, condemned the Norwegian-flagged ship Oslo Carrier 3 for allegedly refusing to rescue sailors from the sinking Russian cargo ship Ursa Major in the Mediterranean. The Ursa Major sank after an explosion, which its owner, Oboronlogistika, labeled as a 'terrorist act', while 14 of its 16 crew members managed to escape in a lifeboat. Medvedev criticized the Norwegian vessel's actions as part of a broader anti-Russian sentiment in Europe, prompting Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov to call the refusal a violation of maritime laws. Russian officials have expressed outrage, with some suggesting that Norway's actions reflect ingratitude for past sacrifices made by Russia during World War II. Ultimately, Spanish sailors from Salvamar Drago conducted the successful rescue of the crew, while claims of refusal from the Norwegian ship have raised significant diplomatic tensions. The incident underscores the complexities of maritime law and international relations amidst ongoing geopolitical strife.