The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Sunday issued an advisory for Indian nationals employed, or planning to take up employment, on commercial vessels operating in or transiting the Black Sea region, citing the volatile security situation due to the ongoing conflict.
The ministry warned that commercial ships passing through Black Sea waters continue to face significant security threats, including missile and drone attacks. It said attacks on merchant vessels have increased since April 2026, resulting in the deaths of five Indian nationals.
The MEA advised Indian seafarers to carefully assess the risks before accepting assignments on vessels operating in the region.
It urged those choosing to work in the conflict zone 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 joining.
The advisory also asked seafarers to keep their families informed about their itinerary and maintain regular communication while at sea.
The ministry directed Indian nationals to regularly monitor and comply with advisories issued by the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) and other Government of India authorities, as well as safety instructions issued by vessel operators and competent maritime authorities.
It specifically advised seafarers to refer to the DGMA's Security Advisory issued on July 23, 2026.
The MEA said Indian nationals requiring consular assistance should immediately contact the nearest Indian mission in the region. It shared emergency helpline numbers for the Indian Embassy in Russia at +7 9652773414 and the Indian Embassy in Ukraine at +38 0933559958.