A Turkish-owned cargo ship came under a drone attack in the Black Sea on Tuesday, leaving at least two people dead and several crew members injured, according to initial reports.
The vessel, MV ROYAD MAMMADOV, caught fire following the reported Russian drone strike while operating in the Black Sea. The incident has raised fresh concerns over the safety of commercial shipping in the strategically important waterway, where vessels have faced increasing risks amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The Indian Embassy in Romania confirmed that three Indian nationals were among the ship’s crew. One of them was initially reported injured and was receiving medical treatment in Romania.
In a statement posted online, the embassy said it had been informed about the attack on the commercial vessel. Preliminary information indicated that two people had been killed, while several crew members sustained injuries and were being treated in Romania.
“We are in contact with the relevant authorities to gather further information regarding the safety and wellbeing of the Indian crew members,” the embassy said.
The situation later appeared less serious for the Indian nationals. Indian Ambassador to Romania Manoj Mohapatra spoke with the three Indian crew members and confirmed that all of them were safe.
The attack adds to growing concerns about commercial vessels navigating the Black Sea, a vital maritime route connecting regional ports with international markets. The waterway has remained a major flashpoint since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with drone attacks and military activity posing risks to civilian and commercial shipping.
Details surrounding the exact circumstances of Tuesday’s strike, including the vessel’s location and the extent of the damage, were still emerging.
Authorities are expected to investigate the incident and assess the impact on the crew and vessel as international attention remains focused on security in the Black Sea.
