In 2026, the Black Sea became the deadliest region on the planet for the crews of merchant vessels, surpassing even the Strait of Hormuz in the number of fatalities — despite the latter attracting far greater international attention. This is according to the Financial Times, citing data from the maritime security company Ambrey and the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Since the beginning of the year, more than 570 vessels have been attacked in the Black Sea, resulting in the deaths of at least 40 sailors. By comparison, 24 fatalities were confirmed in the Strait of Hormuz area over the same period. Some estimates suggest the number of attacks in the Black Sea is more than six times higher than in the Persian Gulf.
The situation deteriorated sharply over the summer and autumn. In the third quarter of 2026 (July–September), around 387 vessels were hit — more than five times the figure for the previous quarter. On average, more than four attacks per day were recorded. Some ships were struck in the crossfire during attacks on ports, while others became deliberate targets of drones, missiles, or explosive-laden boats.
The rising risks have already dealt a serious blow to shipping and the economy. According to insurers, the cost of war-risk coverage in the Black Sea can reach 15% of a vessel’s hull value — nearly twice the rate for ships in the Persian Gulf. Traffic through the ports of Greater Odesa has plummeted: fewer than 10 ships called there in September, compared with around 400 in July. Ukraine’s seaborne agricultural exports in August fell to 1.4 million tonnes — roughly 75% below pre-war levels.
Attacks have spread beyond Ukrainian and Russian waters and moved closer to the coasts of NATO countries Romania and Bulgaria. The European Parliament has already called on the EU to consider a naval operation in the Black Sea following a series of strikes on civilian vessels near these states.
The Black Sea remains a critically important corridor for grain exports and Russian oil, yet the crews of tankers, bulk carriers, and grain ships are forced to run a gauntlet of attacks. The situation continues to worsen amid the mutual escalation of strikes by Russia and Ukraine on maritime infrastructure and vessels.
