The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Sunday issued an advisory urging Indian nationals to carefully assess security risks before accepting employment on commercial vessels operating in or transiting the conflict-affected Black Sea region, citing a sharp rise in attacks on merchant ships and the deaths of five Indian nationals since April this year.
The advisory noted that the security situation in and around the Black Sea and adjoining maritime areas remains highly volatile due to the ongoing conflict, with commercial vessels facing significant threats, including missile and drone attacks.
According to the MEA, there has been an increase in attacks on commercial vessels since April 2026, resulting in the tragic loss of five Indian lives.
The Ministry advised Indian nationals considering employment on ships operating in the region to obtain detailed information from employers, recruitment agencies and ship operators about the vessel’s intended route, ports of call, security arrangements, insurance coverage and emergency response procedures before accepting assignments.
It also urged seafarers to ensure that their employment contracts comply with applicable international maritime standards and include adequate provisions for medical care, evacuation, repatriation and compensation in the event of an emergency.
The advisory further asked Indian nationals to keep their family members informed of their travel itinerary and maintain regular communication while serving onboard.
The MEA also advised Indian seafarers to regularly monitor and comply with advisories issued by the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA), other Government of India authorities, vessel operators and competent maritime authorities. It specifically referred seafarers to the security advisory issued by the DGMA under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways on July 23, 2026.
The Ministry said Indian nationals requiring consular assistance should immediately contact the nearest Indian diplomatic mission in the region. It shared emergency helpline numbers for the Embassy of India in Russia (+7 9652773414) and the Embassy of India in Ukraine (+38 0933559958) for assistance.
