Russia has declared a regional state of emergency in Crimea, which it annexed from Ukraine in 2014, following an oil spill in the Black Sea that occurred in mid-December. The spill, caused by two aging tankers struck by a storm on December 15, has resulted in extensive environmental damage and forced authorities into urgent action.
One of the tankers sank, while the other ran aground, releasing approximately 2,400 metric tons of heavy M100-grade fuel oil into the sea. This type of oil, which solidifies at temperatures below 25°C (77°F), has complicated cleanup efforts as it sinks to the seabed or lingers in the water column, unlike lighter oils that float. Initially feared to be larger, the spill has already contaminated vast stretches of shoreline.
In response, the Russia-installed governor of Sevastopol, Mikhail Razvozhaev, declared an emergency to accelerate cleanup operations and safeguard public health. This declaration grants authorities additional powers, such as evacuating residents from affected areas.
The Kerch Strait, which connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Azov, has been the focal point of cleanup efforts. Russia’s emergencies ministry has mobilized over 10,000 workers to clear the beaches of contaminated sand and soil. As of Saturday, more than 86,000 metric tons of polluted material have been removed, according to the ministry.
Footage released on the Telegram messaging app shows workers in protective gear collecting oil-tainted sand, which is then loaded onto diggers for disposal. In tourist areas like Anapa, known for its summer resorts, teams have been shoveling heavy, foul-smelling fuel oil from the beaches.
Environmental groups report alarming impacts on marine life, with dolphins, porpoises, and seabirds among the casualties.
The incident has raised concerns about the aging infrastructure of oil transport in the region. The two tankers involved were over 50 years old, carrying a combined 9,200 metric tons of oil products at the time of the storm.
Efforts to address the spill continue, with authorities and environmental groups grappling with the long-term consequences of the disaster.
