India Condemns Escalating Black Sea Attacks Amid Concerns for Seafarers
India has issued a strong condemnation following a series of aggressive strikes on commercial vessels in the Black Sea that have placed Indian mariners in significant danger. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that at least two Indian crew members sustained injuries during the chaotic events, which involved four separate merchant ships over a 48-hour window. Among the affected vessels were the MV Royad Mammadov, the Alfa Watan, the MV ABLE, and the Aframax Rio. While all Indian crew members were successfully rescued, the incidents have underscored the growing peril faced by international merchant shipping as regional tensions continue to flare.
In response to the deteriorating security situation, New Delhi is intensifying its diplomatic outreach to both Moscow and Kyiv, advocating for a shift from military confrontation toward meaningful dialogue. Indian officials emphasized that the current cycle of violence threatens global supply chains, specifically regarding energy and grain exports. Beyond addressing immediate maritime safety, India is positioning itself as a proactive mediator, with both Russian and Ukrainian leadership acknowledging Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts to facilitate a peaceful resolution to the prolonged conflict. As the security of maritime trade routes becomes increasingly precarious, India remains committed to engaging both parties to ensure the protection of its citizens and the stabilization of the region.