Navigating Danger: The Ukrainian Divers Tackling Undersea Mines in the Black Sea

Mon Feb 02 2026 15:34:40 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Ukrainian Navy divers bravely confront the perils of underwater mines and explosives, crucially affecting maritime safety and export viability in the Black Sea amidst ongoing conflict.

In a gripping account, Ukrainian Navy divers meticulously work to clear dangerous underwater mines left by Russian forces in the Black Sea. Operating under constant threat, these divers must approach the explosive devices slowly and carefully to prevent detonation. Their mission is vital for ensuring safe maritime navigation and maintaining Ukraine's export capabilities during the ongoing conflict.

The Black Sea is littered with deadly weapons, but no one knows how many— or where they are.

When we approach it, we should be quiet, we should be slow – and we should be very accurate, says Vitalii, a 31-year-old Ukrainian Navy diver. He wields his hand like a snake, illustrating the delicate maneuvers through dark waters towards the explosive devices resting on the sea floor.

The Ukrainian Navy's mission to de-mine the Black Sea's controlled areas is perilous yet essential. Mines pose a long-lasting threat, remaining active for decades and capable of drifting with currents.

Mine countermeasures group commander Fox estimates the number of sea mines in the thousands. The presence of missiles and other unexploded ordnance adds to their efforts' complexity. These risks were highlighted last summer when three swimmers were killed off Odesa's coast by mines.

The effort by Ukraine's divers is not merely a matter of safety but also vital for commercial navigation and export potential, as significant commercial ships continue to operate within the volatile maritime zones.

Despite the challenges, these brave divers like Vitalii continue their crucial work, moving slowly and cautiously—one second at a time—until they clear the deadly threats from the waters.