Overview

• Three holidaymakers—two in Zatoka and one in Karolino-Buhaz—died when two drifting sea mines exploded around 11:30 a.m. on August 10.
• Odesa regional head Oleh Kiper and Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi police confirmed the victims were swimming in officially closed areas when the devices detonated.
• Bomb disposal experts, investigative teams and rescuers have been dispatched to the blast sites to clear additional ordnance and collect evidence.
• Anti-ship mines laid early in the Black Sea conflict continue to wash into shallower waters, creating unpredictable hazards for beachgoers.
• Local officials warn that recurring mine threats could worsen economic fallout for the Odesa region’s vital tourism sector if enforcement and demining efforts lag.