The end of the beginning.
BP has confirmed a 'static kill' operation at the ruptured Gulf of Mexico oil well has been a success, allowing the beleaguered giant to take a significant step toward permanently sealing it.
Following an eight-hour operation at the site, heavy drilling fluid – known in the industry as mud – was poured into the well, forcing the oil back down toward the reservoir.
The operation has allowed BP to assume control of the pressure of the well, which was "the desired outcome", said a statement.
"The well pressure is now being controlled by the hydrostatic pressure of the drilling mud, the desired outcome of the static kill procedure," added the statement.
However, the situation was still being monitored.
"The well is now being monitored, per the procedure, to ensure the well remains static," added BP.
"Further pumping of mud may or may not be required depending on the results observed during monitoring."