Explosions Claim Lives of Swimmers in Odessa Region
In the Odessa region of Ukraine, three beachgoers lost their lives in tragic incidents involving underwater explosions near Zatoka in August 2025. The victims, two men and one woman, were swimming in waters not authorized by the authorities, specifically in the areas of Satoka and Karolino-Buhas.
Governor Oleh Kiper has emphasized the importance of swimming only in officially designated safe zones that have been thoroughly inspected for sea mines and other threats. Currently, there are 32 officially designated safe swimming zones in the Odessa region that have undergone full inspections to ensure no mine threat exists on land or in water.
The ongoing mine dangers in Black Sea waters around Odessa are caused by Russian-laid mines to block grain exports and Ukrainian mines placed for defense. Alongside mine risks, some beaches are marked unsafe due to water toxins, with only 8 beaches meeting safety standards for water quality in Odessa.
Authorities continue investigations into the incidents and warn that ignoring safety rules poses a direct threat to life and health. They particularly recommend citizens avoid swimming outside these designated safe zones, especially given the ongoing war-related threats including missile and drone attacks around the region.
The region of Odessa has been under threat for nearly three and a half years due to the Russian invasion. The explosions detonated when the swimmers came into contact with the explosive devices, and their type was initially unclear. Governor Oleh Kiper has warned of the danger both in the water and on land in unauthorized beach areas.
The Odessa region continues to be targeted by Russian drones, with frequent attacks reported. Investigators are examining the two cases of the explosions to determine the cause and prevent future incidents. Governor Kiper has published a list of 32 safe beaches for beachgoers to follow to ensure their safety and well-being.
In summary, swimming in Odessa is only considered safe within the 32 officially authorized and regularly inspected zones, and following all official safety instructions is vital due to the real risks from sea mines and conflict-related dangers.
- Ignoring the official safety regulations, as seen in the tragic incidents at Satoka and Karolino-Buhas, potentially puts lives at risk, given the ongoing war-related threats, such as missile and drone attacks, and the presence of unexploded sea mines in the waters around Odessa.
- In the midst of the ongoing war-and-conflicts in the Odessa region and the continued risks posed by Russian drone attacks and sea mines, it is imperative for citizens to swim only in the officially designated general-news and crime-and-justice-approved safe zones, which have undergone thorough inspections and meet safety standards for both land and water.
