A Storm Destroyed Two Tankers In The Kerch Strait, And The Black Sea Coast Was Flooded With Oil
A severe storm destroyed two old tankers, causing a massive oil spill along the Russian Black Sea coast. The oil covered more than 60 kilometers of coast between Temryuk and Anapa.
The disaster began when the Russian tanker Volgunft 212, carrying more than 4,000 tons of oil, broke into two parts when it encountered a storm in the Kerch Strait.
Another tanker, Volgunft 239, ran aground nearby, exacerbating the oil spill. The third tanker, Volgunft 109, managed to avoid serious damage, and the crew was safe.
The storm caused much oil to wash ashore, and the beautiful beaches turned black-contaminated areas. Cleanup teams, including volunteers and officials, are working hard to remove the thick oil. However, bad weather has slowed their progress.
Reports show that birds covered in oil are dying, and local wildlife is struggling to survive. Greenpeace Ukraine confirmed the birds’ deaths, while residents are concerned about possible long-term damage to dolphins and other marine life in the area.
The tanker involved in the spill is more than 50 years old and is part of a fleet in poor condition. Experts have long warned of the dangers of using old ships, especially during bad weather.
The Kerch Strait, where the spill occurred, is an important area for marine life. Marine biologist Dmitry Glazov said the spill would cause severe damage to the environment, and recovery could take years.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized Russia for ignoring safety standards and describing the spill as an “environmental disaster.” He also urged the international community to take action against Russia’s use of old tankers.
Russian authorities have declared a state of emergency in several regions, including Temryuk and Anapa provinces. Authorities confirmed that more than 30 kilometers of coastline were severely polluted.
Governor Veniamin Kondratiev said the cleanup was continuing but acknowledged that it could take a long time, especially with bad weather worsening the situation.
The Kerch Strait is a major shipping route and a sensitive area for wildlife. The oil spill not only harms the environment but also raises political tensions, as the region is already affected by the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Experts are concerned about the long-term impact on marine life, especially dolphins and fish that live or migrate in the area.
