The Ministry of External Affairs expressed serious concern over attacks on commercial shipping in the Black Sea, while Ukraine extended condolences and attributed the growing maritime risks to the ongoing conflict with Russia.

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India has summoned Ukraine‘s Ambassador to India, Oleksandr Polishchuk, following recent attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea that resulted in the deaths of Indian seafarers, including one Indian national aboard MV OMORFI.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it conveyed its “serious concern” over the incident and strongly condemned attacks targeting commercial shipping, stressing the importance of safeguarding civilian maritime navigation and international trade.

India raises concerns with Ukraine

In an official statement, the MEA said the Ukrainian envoy was called to South Block after the attack on MV OMORFI, which claimed the life of an Indian seafarer.

The ministry said India conveyed its strong objections to attacks affecting civilian merchant vessels and requested the ambassador to communicate New Delhi’s concerns to the Ukrainian government.

According to the MEA, attacks that endanger innocent civilian crews and commercial navigation are unacceptable and should be avoided.

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Attack on MV OMORFI

The diplomatic démarche follows the July 18 attack on MV OMORFI in the Black Sea.

The Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) identified the deceased Indian crew member as Chief Officer Sagar Gupta.

The incident has intensified concerns over the safety of Indian nationals serving aboard commercial vessels operating in the conflict-affected region.

Ukraine responds to India’s concerns

Responding to the development, the Embassy of Ukraine in New Delhi expressed condolences to the families of the deceased Indian sailors.

The embassy said Ukraine had already conveyed sympathy through a letter sent by Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.

While acknowledging India’s concerns, Ukraine maintained that the risks to civilian navigation stem from Russia’s military actions in the Black Sea.

According to the embassy, Ukraine has consistently warned international partners about the growing security threats in the region and has communicated its concerns through the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

The embassy also expressed hope that the foreign ministers of India and Ukraine would soon discuss maritime security and the evolving situation in greater detail.

Another vessel involving Indian crew hit

The diplomatic exchange comes shortly after another maritime incident involving Indian nationals.

India’s Embassy in Ukraine confirmed that merchant vessel MV AGN Ragnar was struck at the Port of Odesa on July 25 while carrying four Indian nationals.

According to the latest information shared by the embassy:

• Two Indian crew members have been confirmed safe.
• Information regarding the remaining two crew members is still awaited.
• Search and rescue operations are continuing.

The embassy said it remains in constant contact with Ukrainian authorities and is monitoring the situation closely.

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Earlier attack claimed four Indian lives

The latest incidents follow another deadly strike earlier this month.

On July 19, merchant vessel MV Golden Leo was attacked while departing from the Port of Odesa, resulting in the deaths of four Indian nationals and leaving another crew member critically injured.

The series of incidents has heightened concerns over the safety of Indian seafarers working aboard commercial ships operating in the Black Sea.

India issues advisory for seafarers

In response to the deteriorating security environment, the Ministry of External Affairs has issued a detailed advisory for Indian nationals considering employment on commercial vessels operating in or transiting the Black Sea.

The advisory states that the region remains highly volatile because of the ongoing conflict and warns that merchant vessels continue to face missile and drone threats.

The ministry noted that attacks on commercial shipping have increased since April 2026, resulting in the deaths of five Indian nationals.

The MEA has advised prospective seafarers to:

• Carefully assess security risks before accepting assignments.
• Seek detailed information about shipping routes, insurance coverage and emergency response plans.
• Ensure employment contracts include provisions for medical care, evacuation, repatriation and compensation.
• Maintain regular communication with family members.
• Follow advisories issued by the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) and other government authorities.

India’s focus on maritime safety

India’s latest diplomatic intervention reflects its growing concern over the safety of Indian seafarers working in conflict-affected waters.

While urging stronger protection for civilian shipping, New Delhi has reiterated that attacks threatening innocent merchant crews and international maritime navigation are unacceptable, as it continues to monitor developments in the Black Sea.

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FAQ

Why did India summon Ukraine’s Ambassador?

India summoned Ukraine’s Ambassador after attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea resulted in the deaths of Indian seafarers, including one aboard MV OMORFI.

What did the MEA say?

The Ministry of External Affairs condemned attacks on commercial shipping, expressed serious concern over the safety of Indian seafarers and urged Ukraine to ensure such incidents are avoided.

How did Ukraine respond?

Ukraine expressed condolences to the families of the deceased Indian sailors, acknowledged India’s concerns and stated that the maritime risks are linked to the ongoing conflict with Russia.

What advice has India issued to seafarers?

The MEA has advised Indian nationals to carefully assess security conditions before accepting assignments in the Black Sea region, verify insurance and emergency arrangements, and follow official government advisories.

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