On December 15, 2024, two Russian oil tankers, Volgoneft-212 and Volgoneft-239, were severely impacted by stormy conditions in the Kerch Strait. The Volgoneft-212 sank after splitting in half, carrying over 4,300 tonnes of mazut, resulting in one dead crew member and multiple injuries. The Volgoneft-239, which ran aground, also posed a risk with its cargo of 4 tonnes of fuel oil. Russian authorities opened criminal investigations into potential safety violations. President Putin has ordered a working group to address the rescue efforts and environmental damages in this ecologically sensitive region.