Beach Holiday Turns Deadly as Washed-Up Sea Mines Explode, Killing Three in Black Sea Resort
What began as a sunny, carefree morning at one of Ukraine’s popular Black Sea resorts quickly turned into a scene of horror when hidden explosive devices detonated, killing three vacationers.
The incident took place on Sunday, August 10, in the coastal stretch between Karolino-Buhaz and Zatoka — an area that, despite ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, continues to draw swimmers and sunbathers. Local authorities have repeatedly warned tourists about the risk of sea mines drifting ashore from active combat zones.
The Fatal Morning
At around 11:30 a.m., two men and a woman were in the water when explosions erupted without warning. Regional governor Oleh Kiper confirmed the victims died instantly after striking “explosive devices” in an area that was officially closed to swimming.
“This tragedy proves once again that venturing into unchecked waters is lethally dangerous,” Kiper said. “Safety inspections can only do so much — the risk remains in both land and sea.”
Warnings Ignored
Police say that as summer crowds grew, so did their efforts to caution beachgoers against entering restricted waters. In their official statement, they revealed the victims’ identities are still being confirmed. “It has been preliminarily established that two explosions from unknown objects caused their deaths,” the report read.
The War’s Hidden Danger
The Black Sea has been seeded with mines since Russia’s 2022 invasion. Both Russian and Ukrainian forces deployed them to protect ports and naval routes, but shifting tides and weather conditions have carried some into civilian areas — turning once-safe beaches into deadly traps.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue
Meanwhile, on the international stage, U.S. President Donald Trump announced he will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday, August 15, 2025, to discuss ending the war. “Further details to follow,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, calling it a “highly anticipated meeting.”
As the investigation into Sunday’s tragedy continues, officials urge visitors to stay out of prohibited waters — a warning underscored by the devastating loss of life.