‘Sitting targets in Russia-Ukraine war zone’: 13 Indian sailors face danger amid Black Sea attacks

Kyiv: Indian authorities are coordinating with Ukraine to protect 13 Indian seafarers aboard the Tanzania-flagged merchant vessel MV Amir1, which has been anchored at the Black Sea port of Chornomorsk since July 8.

The vessel has a total crew of 15 members, including 13 Indians and two Iranian nationals. Concerns over their safety increased after the Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) shared a video showing smoke rising near the Ukrainian port following reported drone and missile attacks.

The Indian embassy in Kyiv said it was aware of the situation and was working with relevant authorities to ensure the safety of those onboard.

“A situation regarding MV Amir1 with Indian seafarers onboard has been brought to our attention. We attach the highest priority to this and are in constant touch with all concerned to ensure safety and security of all Indians onboard,” the embassy said.

The embassy did not provide further details about the nature of the security measures being taken.

Seafarers report fear amid repeated explosions

The FSUI described the situation faced by the crew as dangerous, claiming that repeated drone and missile attacks had taken place near the vessel.

“Repeated drone and missile attacks are being attempted in the immediate vicinity of the vessel. The crew is living under constant fear of a direct hit at any moment,” the union said.

The union urged authorities, shipowners and the vessel's flag state to take immediate steps to secure the crew and arrange their return.

FSUI general secretary Manoj Yadav said the crew members had been onboard for around 20 days and had reported several explosions in the area. “The crew has been there for 20 days and they have said there have been several explosions. They are very worried about their safety,” Yadav said.

Previous attacks have killed Indian seafarers

The latest concerns come after a series of attacks on commercial vessels in conflict zones. Five Indian seafarers have died and two others have been reported missing following recent Russian and Ukrainian attacks on merchant ships in the Black Sea.

The incidents have raised concerns over the vulnerability of civilian shipping routes during ongoing conflicts.

India has previously raised the issue with diplomats from Iran, the United States, Russia and Ukraine, calling for an end to attacks targeting merchant vessels, civilian infrastructure and seafarers.

The Black Sea has become a major security challenge for commercial shipping since the Russia-Ukraine war began. While military targets remain the primary focus of attacks, commercial vessels operating in affected areas have also faced increasing risks.

The FSUI said there had been a sudden increase in attacks on merchant ships in recent weeks. Manoj Yadav compared the situation to attacks on shipping routes in the Persian Gulf, where several seafarers have also been killed since February.

“It is almost as if people have seen how attacks on merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz attract international attention and they’re using the same tactics in the Black Sea,” Yadav said.

India faces diplomatic challenge over seafarers' safety

The situation involving MV Amir1 highlights the challenges faced by countries trying to protect citizens working in international shipping routes affected by conflicts.

India has a large maritime workforce, with thousands of citizens employed on commercial vessels worldwide. The safety of Indian seafarers has become a growing diplomatic concern as conflicts increasingly affect global shipping networks.

The immediate priority for Indian authorities remains ensuring the safe evacuation or protection of the crew members aboard MV Amir1 while continuing discussions with Ukrainian officials and other stakeholders.