Odesse Beach, a storm washed a mine onto the beach, which looked like an anchor mine. A Ukrainian civilian approached to examine the mine closely, a highly dangerous act, as these uncontrolled drifting mines could explode. The fuze or internal explosives of the mine may still be active, and even minor vibrations, touch, or temperature changes could trigger an explosion.
Since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022, Ukraine has laid mines in the Black Sea coastal areas such as Odesse and Nikolaev, mainly to prevent the Russian Navy from landing or blockading ports.
Ukraine relies on the Port of Odesse to export grain, and mining can hinder the Russian blockade of the port. Ukraine mainly uses Soviet-era anchor mines (UDM series) and bottom mines (KMD series). Due to their age, these mines have a risk of drifting. Several merchant ships, including grain carriers, have reported finding floating mines near Odesse, leading to a surge in insurance costs and some routes being forced to detour.
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1838950984535051/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.