Three Killed by Sea Mines on Odesa Beaches

Three swimmers—a woman and two men—were killed by sea mines while swimming in prohibited areas near the Black Sea resorts of Zatoka and Karolino-Buhaz in Ukraine's Odesa region. The explosions occurred around 11:30am on Sunday, shocking crowds of holidaymakers and highlighting the ongoing danger from drifting mines. Both Russian and Ukrainian forces have deployed mines since the start of the conflict, leading to unpredictable hazards along the coastline. Authorities have designated 32 officially inspected and permitted swimming areas, with 30 located in Odesa, as safe. Regional governor Oleh Kiper and local police stressed that the victims were in banned zones and investigations are ongoing. Officials continue to urge the public to strictly follow safety rules and avoid unauthorized beach areas.