Indian Embassy monitors MV AMIR1 after drone and missile threats near Chornomorsk port

The Indian Embassy in Ukraine says it is closely monitoring the situation involving merchant vessel MV AMIR1, which is reported to be docked at Chornomorsk port on Ukraine's Black Sea coast. The ship is carrying 13 Indian seafarers, according to the information provided by a seafarers' union. The vessel is said to be trapped amid repeated drone and missile attacks in the surrounding area.

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In a statement posted on social media, the embassy said it was in constant touch with all concerned authorities and that the safety and security of the Indian crew remained its highest priority. The Forward Seamen's Union of India has urged the government, shipowners and other authorities to ensure the crew's safety and arrange evacuation. The union said the vessel has 15 crew members in total, including 13 Indians, and described the situation as life-threatening.

Chornomorsk is a Black Sea port southwest of Odesa, and the reported threat to MV AMIR1 comes as maritime activity in the region remains exposed to the wider war. The incident highlights the continuing risk to commercial shipping and civilian seafarers operating near Ukraine's southern ports. It also places renewed attention on the safety of foreign nationals working aboard merchant vessels in an active conflict zone.

The development follows a separate incident involving merchant vessel MV AGN Ragnar at Odesa port on 25 July, when the ship was struck and two Indian seafarers went missing. India said on Tuesday that it remained in contact with the families of the missing crew members and was working with Ukrainian authorities to locate them. Indian officials have also reiterated that commercial shipping, seafarers, civilians and civilian infrastructure should not be targeted under any circumstances.

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The latest case underscores how the conflict continues to affect maritime routes and port operations along Ukraine's Black Sea coast. It also shows the role of diplomatic missions and labour groups in pressing for protection measures when crews are stranded in dangerous conditions. For India, the issue has a direct human dimension because its nationals are among those aboard the vessel.

It remains unclear whether any evacuation plan has been agreed for the crew on MV AMIR1 or how long the ship will remain at Chornomorsk. The immediate focus is on monitoring the vessel, maintaining contact with authorities and protecting those on board. Further updates are likely to depend on the security situation around the port and any decisions taken by Ukrainian and Indian officials.

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