Odessa Veterans Accuse Businessman of Misinformation Over Inclusive Beach

Odessa Veterans Protest Businessman's Alleged Manipulation of Inclusive Beach Project Odessa, Ukraine – A heated public dispute has erupted in Odesa over the future of a city-funded inclusive beach project. War veterans, individuals with disabilities, and members of the public have accused businessman Yuriy Degas of spreading misinformation about the beach's closure, claiming it is a deliberate attempt to discredit the project and advance his own business interests. Degas's statements regarding the purported closure of the inclusive beach have sparked outrage. Veterans and activists insist that Degas is deliberately confusing the inclusive beach with a separate beach facility known as "Kaleton." They emphasize that these are distinct entities with separate legal structures and lease agreements. The protest highlights the concerns of those who fought for Ukraine and now face challenges accessing vital community resources. "Degas didn't fight in the war," stated Oleksandr Babenko, a veteran who served in various combat zones. "He's using the veterans' issue for his own PR. He was fictitiously mobilized and then demobilized in 2025, using his disabled father as a pretext. This isn't possible for ordinary soldiers." The veterans and community members have appealed to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and First Lady Olena Zelenska to prevent the undermining of city initiatives developed in collaboration with the community and authorities. The situation underscores the complexities faced in implementing inclusive projects in a post-conflict society and the importance of transparency and accountability in public works. The inclusive beach, currently under preparation, is intended to be a model of accessibility for people with disabilities. The ongoing conflict has left many veterans with injuries and disabilities, making accessible facilities essential for their rehabilitation and well-being. The protest serves as a call for greater transparency and protection of vital community resources.