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New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued a security advisory for Indian nationals employed on commercial vessels operating in or transiting through the Black Sea, warning of heightened risks due to the ongoing conflict in the region.

The advisory comes after five Indian seafarers lost their lives in separate attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea this month, prompting the government to urge citizens to carefully assess the risks before accepting jobs in the conflict zone.

MEA Warns of Volatile Security Situation

In its advisory, the MEA said the security environment in and around the Black Sea remains highly volatile, with commercial ships increasingly facing missile and drone attacks.

The ministry noted that attacks on merchant vessels have risen since April 2026, resulting in casualties, including Indian nationals. It urged seafarers to exercise extreme caution while working in the region.

Guidelines for Indian Seafarers

The government advised Indians taking up maritime assignments in the Black Sea to obtain complete information from employers and shipping companies regarding sailing routes, ports of call, onboard security arrangements, insurance coverage and emergency response plans.

The advisory also asked crew members to ensure their employment contracts include provisions for medical care, evacuation, repatriation and compensation in case of emergencies. Seafarers have been urged to keep their families informed of their travel plans and regularly follow advisories issued by Indian authorities and maritime agencies.

Emergency Helplines Issued

The MEA has asked Indian nationals requiring assistance to immediately contact the Indian missions in Russia or Ukraine through dedicated emergency helplines.

The advisory follows two recent attacks involving Indian crew members. An Indian national was killed while traveling through Russian territorial waters in the Black Sea on July 18. Days later, four more Indians were killed when the merchant vessel **MV Golden Leo** was struck near Ukraine’s Odesa port.

The Center said Indian missions are coordinating with local authorities to assist the affected families while continuing to monitor the security situation in the region.