What would happen if Uruguay seized Graf Spee, and how long might it keep the ship?
Short answerBritain would welcome it, Germany would object, and Uruguay would likely retain the cruiser for as long as it could afford its operation and upkeep.
NotesThe political result is straightforward, but possession would create continuing costs for repair, crew, ammunition, and machinery support. Uruguay would probably keep a capable captured ship as long as its finances permitted rather than discard it quickly.