A regional emergency has been declared in Sevastopol, Crimea, as oil from storm-damaged tankers continues to wash ashore. Cleaning efforts have mobilized thousands of workers, with over 96,000 tons of contaminated soil removed. Russian President Vladimir Putin has labeled the incident an ecological disaster amid rising concerns of environmental damage. The spill, originated from two tankers off the Kerch Strait, poses significant risks to local wildlife and has rekindled tensions related to Crimea's annexation by Russia.