VIDEO: Two Vessels with 27 Crew Members Encounter Disaster

The press service of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Crimea has reported that the cargo ships 'Volgoneft 212' and 'Volgoneft 239', with 13 and 14 crew members respectively, have encountered a disaster in the Kerch Strait and are requesting assistance. The 'Mercury' rescue tug has departed from Kerch to rescue the crew, and a Mi-8 helicopter with rescuers has also been dispatched to the scene.

The vessels were damaged due to severe weather conditions, including strong stormy winds and wave heights of up to 7 points. 'The Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations' Mi-8, with rescuers from 'KRIM-SPAS' and necessary equipment, has flown to the area of the Kerch Strait where the cargo ships are located. Additionally, the 'Mercury' rescue tug from the marine rescue coordination center has left the Kamish-Burun bay in Kerch,' the agency stated.

Information regarding oil product spills is currently being verified.