The Times: Ukrainian divers risk their lives to defuse mines in the Black Sea

Ukrainian military sappers are engaged in demining in the Black Sea every day to ensure the safe passage of ships through the maritime corridor.

Representatives of the Center for the Management of Naval Forces of Ukraine told how the protection of cargo ships and infrastructure along the sea corridor is carried out, writes The Times.

The commander of the “Varan” division recalled a warning about a mine that was just a few meters from the pier in the port, which could trigger a large explosion.

“We had little time. As soon as the wave began to push the mine toward the pier, it would explode. We couldn’t let her explode in the port – it was dangerous, but we had to get closer to try to tow her away,” said the commander.

Varan also told how they had only minutes to avert disaster when one of the sea mines came too close to port. One of the divers jumped overboard, swam to the mine and came face to face with it to carefully attach the tow line to it.

“The diver has to hold it carefully in his hands, look for a place to tie the cable. They are always in mortal danger. It’s just awful. We had to slowly tow her five miles from port. It took an hour. We brought her out to clear water, the diver dived again, untied the cable, installed the detonator and returned to the ship. As soon as the ship sailed to a safe distance, an explosion occurred,” said the division commander.

The publication also recalled the Russian attack on the “Aya” ship in the Romanian maritime zone, when it was heading to Egypt from Chornomorsk.

“Last year, they detained a Turkish vessel. The helicopter landed, everyone was searched and released. It was a show of strength. They constantly threaten on the radio: “Now we will shoot you.” They do it every day,” said Dmytro Pletenchuk, spokesman for the Ukrainian Naval Forces.

It should be noted that the Russians mainly use Iranian drones and mines, as well as Lancet drones, to attack infrastructure related to the grain corridor.

The photo is illustrative.