13 Indian seafarers trapped in Ukraine port as drone, missile attacks intensify

The Forward Seamen's Union of India (FSUI) has called on the Centre, the ship's owners, its flag state and other authorities to urgently intervene and evacuate the crew.

The MV AMIR1 has 15 crew members aboard, including 13 Indians, according to the union. FSUI said the vessel remains stranded in the conflict zone and that the danger to those on board is increasing with each passing day.

'Living under constant fear'

The union also released a video purportedly recorded from the vessel. The footage appeared to show thick smoke rising close to the port.

"MV AMIR1, currently at Ukrainian port Chornomorsk with 15 crew on board, including 13 Indian seafarers, is trapped in a terrible and life-threatening situation," FSUI said.

It alleged that drone and missile strikes were being carried out in the immediate vicinity of the vessel, leaving the crew fearful of a direct hit.

"Repeated drone and missile attacks are being attempted in the immediate vicinity of the vessel. The crew is living under constant fear of a direct hit at any moment," the union said.

The Ministry of External Affairs and the shipping company had not responded to the allegations at the time of publication.

Indian sailor killed in recent Odesa strike

The latest appeal comes amid a series of attacks on merchant vessels operating off Ukraine's southern coast.

A day earlier, India summoned Ukraine's Ambassador in New Delhi after the MV OMORFI came under attack near Odesa. Four Indian crew members were aboard the vessel, and one Indian sailor was killed.

The Ministry of External Affairs condemned the attack in the "strongest terms", describing strikes on commercial shipping as a serious threat to maritime safety, freedom of navigation and global trade.

New Delhi also called on Ukraine to ensure that civilian merchant vessels are not targeted during military operations.

More Indian seafarers caught in crossfire

The latest incident follows another attack last week involving the MV AGN RAGNAR, which was struck at Odesa with four Indian crew members aboard.

Two sailors were rescued, while two others remained missing and search operations continued.

Earlier this month, the cargo vessel MV Golden Leo was hit near Odesa, killing 10 crew members, including four Indians.

Following the attack, New Delhi summoned Russia's chargé d'affaires and raised concerns over the safety of Indian seafarers operating in the conflict zone.

Black Sea shipping faces growing risks

The incidents highlight the increasing dangers confronting merchant sailors operating in the Black Sea as the Russia-Ukraine war continues.

Odesa and Chornomorsk are important cargo hubs, but the ports and surrounding waters have also come under repeated missile and drone attacks.

Civilian crews have consequently found themselves stranded aboard commercial vessels for extended periods amid security threats.

The Ministry of External Affairs has also advised Indians to carefully assess the security situation before accepting assignments on commercial vessels operating in or transiting through the Black Sea.

The latest FSUI appeal has renewed calls for authorities and shipping companies to ensure that Indian seafarers are not left exposed to the escalating risks in the conflict zone.