India is deeply concerned about the safety of its citizens in merchant vessels after an attack in the Black Sea.
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar had discussed the matter with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, stressing that security and well-being of Indian seafarers operating in conflict-prone waters have to be ensured.
A commercial vessel was attacked recently in the Black Sea and maritime security as Russia-Ukraine battles brew in the background. Thousands of Indian seafarers work in international cargo ships and tankers and so their safety is a priority for the Indian government.
According to official sources, Jaishankar expressed India’s deep concern about the incident and called upon Russia to take every possible step to secure Indian workers at various merchant ships operating in the region. The discussion also covered the bigger picture of expanding hostilities in a region that is also one of the most strategically important maritime trade routes of the world.
India has always insisted the safety of civilians (seafarers and merchant crews) should be the most important in the event of war. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is closely monitoring and is in close contact with the relevant authorities regarding the welfare of Indian citizens who may be affected.
The Black Sea has remained a hotspot since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine war and there have been repeated drone and missile attacks on ports, cargo vessels and maritime infrastructure. The results of these incidents have disrupted global shipping, disrupted grain exports and raised the international shipping companies’ risks.
Indian seafarers are one of the world’s largest maritime workforces and serve on vessels operated by various international companies. Most are employed on ships in high-risk waters so diplomatic involvement is crucial for security incidents.
An in-depth review of our bilateral relations with FM Sergey Lavrov of Russia.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) July 22, 2026
Reiterated our strong concern regarding the safety of Indian seafarers in the region. Discussed various aspects of our partnership, including trade & investment, energy & connectivity, science &… pic.twitter.com/hjswnKidfP
The recent communication between Jaishankar and Lavrov is indicative of India's balanced diplomatic strategy. While it is working with Russia, New Delhi is also very much concerned about the safety and welfare of its citizens abroad.
The government has made it very clear that it has been clear from the beginning of its foreign policy that the protection of Indian nationals is at the heart of its foreign policy.
Maritime experts say attacks in the Black Sea have raised insurance costs, changed shipping routes and forced companies to reassess operational risks. Crew members are often kept on long voyages and security threats are high as the region’s environment is unstable.
India‘s diplomatic intervention also highlights the need for international cooperation to help maintain safe navigation and the protection of civilians on seaborne waters. World shipping relies on secure sea lanes and any escalation in conflict zones has far-reaching economic consequences.
As tension levels are high in the Black Sea, India will continue to work closely with all players to protect the lives of its people and to contribute to the maritime security of the world.
The welfare and security of Indian seafarers is of primary importance as changing security situations continue to obstruct trade and shipping in the world.
