Two Russian freighter in distress in front of the Crimea because of bad weather

Two Russian freighter in distress in front of the Crimea because of bad weather

According to the Russian Ministry of Emergency, two Russian cargo ships that are loaded with oil products have come into trouble in the Kertschstrasse between the mainland of Russia and the annexed Crimea. This happened due to bad weather conditions.

rescue operations and evacuations

A helicopter rescue team was sent to the location of one of the damaged ships, the “Volgoneft 212”. The ship was injured after a basic contact accident, which is why the crew asked for help. The 13-member crew was successfully evacuated. Unfortunately, it is known that a member of the crew has died.

second freighter in danger

A second cargo ship called "Volgoneft 239" drifted down after suffering damage in the same area. There are 14 people on board this ship.

rescue operations and possible environmental dangers

The operational headquarters are currently working actively. According to the ministry, over 50 specialists and 11 device units have already been involved in the rescue measures. Further information is currently being clarified. In addition, the expansion of a possible oil leak is examined.

video of dramatic events

A video that circulates on unofficial Ukrainian and Russian Telegram channels seems to show a large cargo ship that has broken into two parts. Waves hit over the upper deck of the ship while it is thrown back and forth. The bow of the ship, which is visible in the background of the video, seems to have been canceled above the waterline. Members of the crew can be seen in lifeguards while the camera spoils.

Unclear about the location of the video

CNN has so far not been able to verify the location of the video independently. Ukraine has regularly targeted Russian infrastructure in or near the Crimea, an area that wants to recapture since it was illegally annexed by Russia in 2014. However, there is no indication that the incidents are connected to the conflict.