- A massive oil spill in the Black Sea has contaminated over 60 kilometers of coastline, harming wildlife and local ecosystems.
- Poorly maintained, aging tankers operated during dangerous weather conditions are being blamed for the disaster.
- Ukrainian President Zelensky calls for international sanctions on Russia’s shadow tanker fleet to curb environmental harm and war funding.
An environmental crisis has unfolded along Russia’s Black Sea coastline after a significant oil spill caused by wrecked tankers during severe weather conditions. The disaster has raised alarms about the use of aging vessels and inadequate maritime safety measures, sparking international calls for action, reports CNN.
Environmental Impact
The oil spill has devastated marine and coastal ecosystems, spreading across 60 kilometers of coastline. Birds covered in thick fuel oil and reports of unbearable stench from the affected areas highlight the scale of destruction.
Emergency measures have been declared in several towns.
Aging Vessels and Safety Failures
The incident underscores the dangers of deploying outdated, poorly maintained ships during extreme weather.
These aging vessels, reportedly operating under severe sanctions, have been repeatedly implicated in maritime accidents over recent years.
Calls for Accountability
Ukrainian President Zelensky criticized the use of unsafe vessels, linking their operation to funding Russia’s war efforts.
He urged the global community to impose sanctions on the shadow fleet, emphasizing that such measures would protect both the environment and international stability.
Challenges in Cleanup Efforts
Stormy conditions are hindering cleanup operations, leaving oil washing up along extensive stretches of coastline.
Local authorities have warned of prolonged efforts to address the crisis, while ecologists describe worsening conditions in affected areas.
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Source: CNN
