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One wrong move and it could all go wrong - the men clearing deadly undersea Russian mines

2 articles
2 sources
0% diversity
Updated 31.1.2026
Key Topics & People
Odesa *Black Sea Dmytro Pletenchuk Russian Fox

Coverage Framing

1
1
National Security(1)
Conflict(1)
Avg Factuality:70%
Avg Sensationalism:Moderate

Story Timeline

Jan 31 Morning

1 articles|1 sources
sea minesblack seamine countermeasuresunderwater explosivesdemining
National Security(1)
BBC News - WorldJan 31

One wrong move and it could all go wrong - the men clearing deadly undersea Russian mines

A team of 20 Ukrainian Navy divers is working to clear thousands of sea mines and unexploded ordnance from the Black Sea near Odesa. These mines, laid by Russia at the start of the invasion, pose a significant threat, having already killed three swimmers last summer. The danger is compounded by missiles, shells, and landmines swept into the sea after the Kakhovka dam's destruction. Despite the risks, the de-mining effort is crucial for maintaining the maritime export corridor, which is vital for Ukraine's economy. The work allows commercial ships to continue operating, bringing in essential revenue and helping Ukraine maintain parity in the maritime domain.

Mixed toneFactual3 sources
Neutral

Key Claims

factual

A team of 20 Ukrainian Navy divers is de-mining parts of the Black Sea under Ukraine's control.

— Laura Gozzi, BBC

factual

Last summer, three swimmers were killed by mines off the Odesa coast.

— Laura Gozzi, BBC

factual

Missiles, artillery shells, bombs and land mines were washed downstream to the sea when the Kakhovka dam was blown up in 2022.

— Laura Gozzi, BBC

quote

"There is parity in the maritime domain at the moment."

— Dmytro Pletenchuk, navy spokesman

statistic

The commander of the navy's mine countermeasures group estimates the number of sea mines is in the thousands.

— Fox, commander of navy's mine countermeasures group

Jan 28 Morning

1 articles|1 sources
odesarussian attacksdrone attacksblack seawar
Conflict(1)
The Guardian - World NewsJan 28

‘Attacks day after day’: Odesa in Russia’s crosshairs as war pivots back to Black Sea

Odesa, Ukraine, has experienced a sharp increase in Russian attacks in recent months, marking a renewed focus on the Black Sea region. Residential areas, including the Kadorr apartment complex, have been struck by Russian drones, causing damage and displacing residents. The escalation follows Ukrainian strikes on Russian naval assets and infrastructure late last year. Russia has intensified its attacks with missiles and drones, targeting energy infrastructure and leaving parts of the city without essential services. According to Ukraine's navy, January has seen almost daily attacks, with only two days without strikes.

Mixed toneFactual2 sources
Negative

Key Claims

factual

Vladimir Putin has long claimed Ukraine’s main port as Russian.

factual

The biggest recent strike, on 13 December, targeted energy infrastructure, leaving parts of the city without water and electricity.

quote

There are two days this month without attack.

— Dmytro Pletenchuk, spokesperson for Ukraine’s navy

factual

Russian strikes against Odesa have escalated sharply in recent months.

quote

The Russians attack the energy infrastructure day after day and night after night because it is so cold now they think we must capitulate.

— Dmytro Pletenchuk, spokesperson for Ukraine’s navy