India warns of increased danger for seafarers working in Black Sea region

July 28 ------ The Government of India has issued a security advisory for Indian nationals seeking employment on commercial vessels operating in or transiting the Black Sea region, warning of heightened risks due to the ongoing conflict and an increase in attacks on merchant ships.

In an advisory issued on 26 July 2026, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said the security situation in and around the Black Sea and adjoining maritime areas remains “highly volatile”, with commercial vessels facing significant threats including missile and drone attacks. The advisory noted that incidents involving commercial vessels have increased, resulting in the loss of five Indian lives.

For instance, in a recent development, two Indian nationals have gone missing after the merchant vessel MG AGN Ragnar was struck in the Black Sea on 25 July, the Indian Embassy in Kyiv said. The vessel was carrying four Indian nationals at the time of the incident. Two have been confirmed safe, while search and rescue operations are underway for the remaining two.

The embassy said it is in contact with the relevant authorities and is monitoring the situation. Indian nationals considering employment on vessels operating in the conflict-affected region have been advised to carefully assess the security risks before accepting assignments.

Those proceeding with such employment have been urged to exercise maximum caution and ensure they receive detailed information from employers, recruitment agencies and ship operators regarding planned routes, ports of call, security measures, insurance coverage and emergency response procedures.

The advisory also stressed that employment terms should comply with applicable international maritime standards and include adequate provisions for medical care, evacuation, repatriation and compensation in the event of an emergency.

Indian seafarers have further been advised to keep family members informed of their itinerary, maintain regular communication and monitor guidance issued by the Directorate General of Maritime Administration and other relevant Indian authorities.

Finally, Indian nationals requiring consular assistance in the region have been advised to contact the relevant Indian diplomatic missions.

Source: safety4sea.com