24 December 2025

Oil Spill Report in the Black Sea near Odesa Following Russian Attacks on Port Infrastructure

An oily surface contamination has been detected in the Black Sea near Odesa Raion. The incident was caused by damage to sunflower oil storage tanks during intensive Russian Federation attacks on port infrastructure, resulting in a portion of the vegetable oil spilling onto the enterprise site, the port area, the estuary, and ultimately into the sea.

The fire at the affected facility has been extinguished. However, during the first two days following the attack, the port was under continuous shelling, which significantly limited the ability to respond promptly to the spill. Cleanup operations were carried out in stages—only during breaks between air raid alerts and in compliance with safety requirements. During this period, boom barriers were also installed.

All relevant services were engaged in the response upon detection of the contamination. The State Environmental Inspectorate of the South-Western District and the Odesa Regional Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Ministry of Health of Ukraine) conduct continuous water-quality monitoring and document environmental damage. The coastline has been cordoned off, and additional pumps and specialized equipment have been deployed.

To prevent further spread of the contamination, the administration of “Pivdennyi” Sea Port has blocked the port channel with two lines of boom barriers. Specialized vessels and fleet units have been engaged to collect the oil from the water surface. The port area remains temporarily closed until the spill is fully contained and all consequences are addressed.

Affected birds have been taken to the Odesa Zoo for rehabilitation. Cleanup efforts are ongoing, and a full assessment of the environmental impact will be provided upon completion of all response measures.