A devastating oil tanker spill has killed dozens of dolphins and other marine mammals in Russia, with over 32 dolphin deaths reported since the fuel oil spilled out of two storm-stricken tankers three weeks ago. The majority of these cetaceans died in the first 10 days after the disaster.
The Kerch Strait, which separates Russia’s southern Krasnodar region from the occupied Crimean Peninsula, has seen significant environmental damage due to the spill. Over 96,000 tons of contaminated sand and soil have been removed by officials and volunteers, but strong winds and waves continue to wash up more dead bodies.
Russian authorities are working to clean up the mess, but two new oil slicks have been discovered, bringing concerns about the long-term impact on marine life. The type of fuel oil involved is particularly hard to clean due to its density and heaviness.
The Kerch Strait is a critical global shipping route and has been a point of contention between Russia and Ukraine since Moscow annexed the peninsula in 2014. President Vladimir Putin has described the oil spill as an “ecological disaster.”
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/russia-oil-spill-dolphins-marine-mammals-dead