New Delhi: An Indian sailor was killed after a commercial vessel was attacked while travelling through the Black Sea, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday. India condemned the strike, calling attacks on civilian shipping a serious threat to maritime safety and global trade.

According to the MEA, the commercial vessel MV OMORFI was attacked on July 18 while it was transiting the Black Sea, reportedly in Russian territorial waters.

The vessel had 10 crew members on board, including three Indian nationals. The MEA confirmed that one Indian crew member died in the attack, while the other two Indian nationals were reported to be safe.

India’s mission in Russia has contacted relevant authorities and is providing assistance to the family of the deceased sailor.

India condemns attack on civilian shipping

The Ministry of External Affairs strongly condemned the attack, stating that targeting commercial vessels and putting civilian crew members at risk is a matter of serious concern.

India said increasing threats to freedom of navigation and international commerce could impact global shipping and called on all parties involved to ensure the safety of maritime routes.

The MEA urged countries and concerned groups to follow international obligations and protect civilian vessels operating in global waters.

Rising risks for ships in conflict zones

The Black Sea has remained a sensitive maritime region due to ongoing geopolitical tensions and military activity. Commercial vessels operating in conflict-affected areas have faced increasing risks, including attacks, disruptions and security threats.

The latest incident adds to concerns over the safety of merchant ships and crew members travelling through strategically important shipping routes. India has previously raised concerns over the safety of its citizens working in conflict-affected regions.

The confirmation of the sailor’s death came several days after the attack as authorities worked to verify details of the incident, confirm the safety of other crew members and coordinate with officials in the region. The MEA’s statement followed this verification process, after which India formally condemned the attack and extended support to the affected family.