Black Sea Ship Attacks Run at More Than Four Per Day

At least 40 seafarers have been killed in the Black Sea during 2026, exceeding the 24 deaths confirmed in the Strait of Hormuz, according to data from maritime security firm Ambrey and the International Maritime Organisation. The Financial Times reported the figures, citing shipowners and maritime organisations. Drone attacks on oil tankers, cargo ships and grain carriers entering waters near EU and NATO territory drive the toll.

More than 570 ships have been targeted in the Black Sea this year, Ambrey and the IMO data shows. During the third quarter, Ambrey recorded an average of more than four attacks per day. Some vessels were struck while ports were being bombarded, and others were deliberately hit. Estimates cited in the Financial Times report put the number of attacks in the Black Sea at more than six times the level seen in the Gulf.

Oleh Hryhoriuk, chair of the Marine Transport Workers' Trade Union of Ukraine, said calling at Ukrainian ports is "near suicidal" for crews. Romanian Foreign Minister Oana Țoiu has said Russia is turning the Black Sea into a danger zone for civilian vessels.

Record freight rates have led some shipping firms to accept the risks of moving Middle East oil. In the Black Sea, shipping groups say most operators will not deploy fleets there because profit margins are thinner than the risks of trading in those waters warrant.