Devastating Storm Hits Crimea and Russia's Black Sea Coast, Causing Destruction and Loss of Life

A major storm, dubbed "Bettina," hit the Crimean peninsula, causing severe damage to Russian coastal defense lines, according to Ukrainian officials. The storm, with waves as high as 26 to 33 feet, resulted in flooding and destruction in various areas. Russia took control of Crimea in 2014, and its recognition as Russian territory remains a key condition for ending the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. The storm's impact on the defense lines highlights the vulnerability of Russia's presence in Crimea.