Indian seafarer killed after ship attacked in Black Sea; MEA condemns incident

NEW DELHI: The ministry of external affairs on Friday condemned the attack on the commercial vessel MV OMORFI in the Black Sea that killed an Indian national, calling attacks on commercial shipping ‘unacceptable’ and urging all parties to ensure the safety of maritime navigation and global trade.The incident took place on July 18, when the MV OMORFI was attacked while transiting the Black Sea, reportedly in Russian territorial waters. According to the MEA, there were 10 crew members on board, including three Indian nationals. One Indian citizen was killed in the attack, while the other two Indians are reported to be safe.In a statement, the MEA said, “On 18 July 2026, the commercial vessel MV OMORFI was attacked while transiting the Black Sea, reportedly in Russian territorial waters. At the time of the incident, there were ten crew members on board, including three Indian nationals. As per available information, one Indian national tragically lost his life in the attack. We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved family of the deceased. The other two Indian nationals on board are reported to be safe.”Condemning the attack, the ministry said, “India unequivocally condemns such attacks targeting commercial shipping and placing the lives of innocent civilian crew members at risk. It is a matter of serious concern that the freedom of navigation and international commerce is facing increasing threats. India calls upon all concerned parties to uphold international obligations to ensure the safety and security of maritime navigation and uninterrupted flow of global commerce.“The latest attack comes after MV Golden Leo, a Guinea-Bissau-flagged cargo vessel, was struck shortly after departing Ukraine’s port of Odesa on July 19. The vessel had 17 crew members, including five Indian nationals. Four Indians were killed and one was critically injured in that attack.The MEA had then condemned the strike, saying commercial shipping and civilian crew members should not be targeted, while assuring that India’s mission in Ukraine was extending all possible assistance to those affected.The back-to-back attacks have heightened concerns over the safety of commercial shipping in the Black Sea, where renewed hostilities have increased risks to civilian vessels and global maritime trade.