Russian general cargo ship URSA MAJOR arrived at Mongla Outer Anchorage, Bangladesh, Bay of Bengal, on Dec 24, with cargo destined for Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant. The ship, however, was rejected entry by direct Bangladeshi Government order, because URSA MAJOR is under USA sanctions, as ex-SPARTA III ship, probably sanctioned because of participation in military activities in Syria. Russian Ambassador demanded ship’s entry on Dec 22, but MFA rejected his request. Bangladeshi Government decided, that ship’s acceptance might be too much trouble. URSA MAJOR remains at anchor as of Dec 29, with status “Waiting for order”.
