Black Sea sees 40 seafarer deaths, surpassing Gulf
Ambrey and IMO data show over 570 ships targeted in the region, a toll exceeding the 24 confirmed deaths in the Strait of Hormuz.
By Maya Desai ·
The Black Sea has become the most lethal environment for maritime workers in 2026, with a higher death toll than the Gulf, according to a report by the Financial Times. The data comes from shipowners and maritime organizations tracking vessel safety near EU and NATO borders.
Data from the maritime security firm Ambrey and the International Maritime Organisation indicates that more than 570 ships have been targeted in the Black Sea this year. At least 40 seafarers have died from these incidents. In comparison, 24 deaths have been confirmed in the Strait of Hormuz.
Crews on oil tankers, cargo ships, and grain carriers face drone threats while operating in these waters. Some estimates suggest the frequency of attacks in the Black Sea is more than six times higher than in the Gulf. Ambrey reported that the third quarter of 2026 saw an average of more than four attacks per day. Some vessels were caught in crossfire during port bombardments, while others were deliberately targeted.
Oleh Hryhoriuk, chair of the Marine Transport Workers' Trade Union of Ukraine, described the risk as near suicidal. "For me, the Black Sea and calling [at] Ukrainian ports is near suicidal," he said.
Economic factors are influencing operator decisions. Record-high freight rates have led some firms to accept the dangers of Middle East oil routes. In the Black Sea, however, shipping groups state that most operators avoid sending fleets due to lower profit margins and higher risks.
Romanian Foreign Minister Oana Țoiu stated that Russia is turning the Black Sea into a danger zone for civilian vessels.
Source: Ukrainska Pravda
