Overview
- Russian strikes on Dec 20 damaged storage tanks at Pivdennyi port, sending vegetable oil into the Black Sea and onto Odesa’s beaches.
- Slicks and frothy pools were recorded at Delfin and Lanzheron, where officials and reporters found dead and oil‑coated seabirds.
- Floating booms now encircle the affected waters, specialized vessels are operating on site, and the port channel is temporarily closed.
- State environmental and public‑health bodies are sampling water and documenting damage as sections of coastline remain cordoned off.
- Odesa Zoo and volunteers are cleaning and rehabilitating grebes and other birds, and authorities say the organic oil will biodegrade but still needs active containment.