The Ukrainian Red Cross steps up mine action in coastal communities

The Black Sea coastline remains a high-risk area. It is a place for recreation, daily work for port employees, and leisure walks for children and tourists. However, it is also an area where explosive ordnance may still be present, posing a serious threat to life and health.

In response, the Humanitarian Access and Protection Department of the Ukrainian Red Cross, in cooperation with representatives from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, carried out a monitoring mission to Odesa and Chornomorsk.

The aim of the visit was not only to assess the effectiveness of existing measures, but also to raise awareness among those most at risk in potentially hazardous coastal zones.

In Chornomorsk, a mine safety session was held for port staff, who work in high-risk areas every day. At the local Social Services Centre, a similar training was provided to employees working with the elderly, one of the most vulnerable groups.

As part of the visit, the Ukrainian Red Cross handed over 3D displays titled “Mines and Explosive Ordnance”, along with training kits containing replica explosive devices, to local communities. These practical tools are designed to support exercises, training, and awareness-raising among residents.

“The sea attracts, but it also conceals dangers. We are working proactively to ensure that everyone who visits the coast knows how to protect themselves and their families,” said Svitlana Avramenko, Head of the Humanitarian Access and Protection Department.

These activities form part of a multi-sector emergency response programme carried out by the Ukrainian Red Cross with support from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and USAID. The programme aims to protect lives in areas of active hostilities and to support internally displaced persons and vulnerable groups, including women, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities.