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The Government of India has taken a very strict stance regarding the deadly attacks on commercial ships in the troubled waters of the Black Sea. On July 18, 2026, an Indian sailor died tragically in an attack on the commercial ship ‘MV OMORFI’ passing through Russian waters. Expressing deep grief over this incident, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has clearly stated that endangering the lives of merchant ships and innocent civilians in international waters cannot be tolerated at any cost. Let us understand the full report of this sensitive incident from the perspective of an International Affairs and Foreign Policy reporter. 10 crew members included 3 Indians, one killed. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Friday issued an official statement confirming the tragic incident: Details of the incident: On July 18, when the commercial ship MV OMORFI was passing through Russian waters via the Black Sea, it was suddenly attacked. Indian Nationals: A total of 10 crew members were on board the ship, including 3 Indian nationals. In this attack, one Indian sailor lost his life on the spot, while two other Indians are said to be safe. Indian Mission’s help: The Indian Embassy in Russia has immediately contacted the local authorities. The process of bringing the mortal remains of the deceased sailor to India and providing all possible assistance to the victim’s family is underway. Strong message from the Ministry of External Affairs: "Threat to freedom of navigation worrying"

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal strongly condemned these attacks on commercial shipping, saying:

"India unequivocally condemns such attacks targeting commercial shipping and endangering the lives of innocent civilian crew members. It is a matter of grave concern that freedom of international navigation and the free flow of global trade are facing increasing threats. All parties must follow international rules."

This attack on MV OMORFI is the second major accident right after ‘MV Golden Leo’. This is not the first incident. Just a day later, on July 19, another Guinea-Bissau-flagged cargo ship, MV Golden Lion, was also fatally attacked. Odessa port incident: The ship was targeted shortly after leaving the port of Odessa, Ukraine. Death of 4 Indians: Out of 17 crew members present on that ship (most of whom were Indian and Syrian citizens), 5 Indians were on board. Four Indian sailors lost their lives in that attack, while one was seriously injured. After the loss of lives of 5 Indian sailors in these gruesome attacks that took place over two consecutive days, the Indian government has demanded the global community to take strict measures to ensure maritime security and keep the supply chain safe.