Indian Seafarers – Embassy Intensifies Efforts as Crew Faces Black Sea Security Risks
Indian Seafarers – The Indian Embassy in Ukraine has stepped up efforts to monitor the safety of Indian nationals serving aboard the merchant vessel MV AMIR1 after reports emerged that the ship is operating in an area exposed to repeated drone and missile attacks near Ukraine’s Black Sea coastline.
The embassy confirmed on Wednesday that it is treating the matter with the highest priority and is maintaining continuous communication with all relevant authorities to safeguard the Indian crew members. In a statement shared on social media platform X, the mission in Kyiv said it is closely following the developments surrounding the vessel and remains engaged with concerned agencies to ensure the security of every Indian onboard.
Concerns Raised Over Crew Safety
The latest diplomatic response comes after the Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) appealed for immediate government intervention. The union expressed serious concern over the condition of the crew, stating that MV AMIR1 is currently stationed at Ukraine’s Chornomorsk port with 15 sailors onboard, including 13 Indian nationals.
According to the FSUI, the vessel has repeatedly been exposed to nearby drone and missile strikes, creating an increasingly dangerous environment for those working aboard. The union warned that the crew remains vulnerable as hostilities continue in the surrounding region.
Union Seeks Immediate Evacuation
Calling the situation urgent, the seafarers’ union urged Indian authorities, the shipowner, and the vessel’s flag state to coordinate immediate protective measures. It also requested that arrangements be made for the crew’s safe return to India at the earliest opportunity.
The organisation stressed that merchant sailors performing civilian duties should not be forced to remain in active conflict zones where their lives could be at risk. It emphasized the need for swift action to prevent any potential tragedy.
Recent Maritime Incident Adds to Anxiety
The concerns surrounding MV AMIR1 have intensified following another incident involving a commercial vessel in Ukraine. On July 25, merchant ship MV AGN Ragnar was struck while at Odesa port, leading to two Indian seafarers being reported missing.
Indian authorities have since been coordinating with Ukrainian officials as search efforts continue. The government is also maintaining regular contact with the families of the missing crew members and monitoring developments related to the ongoing rescue operation.
India Reaffirms Position on Civilian Shipping
Earlier this week, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated India’s long-standing position that commercial shipping, civilian infrastructure, and seafarers should never become targets during armed conflicts.
He also repeated India’s call for a peaceful resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict through dialogue and diplomatic engagement. The government has consistently maintained that protecting civilians and ensuring the safety of international maritime operations must remain a priority for all parties involved.
As tensions persist in the Black Sea region, the Indian government continues to monitor the situation closely while working with relevant authorities to safeguard its citizens serving aboard commercial vessels operating in affected waters.