The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) has condemned recent attacks on commercial vessels operating in the Black Sea, warning that civilian seafarers must not be exposed to harm as regional conflict increasingly affects merchant shipping.

The condemnation follows reports that a tanker transiting Ukraine’s exclusive economic zone while en route to the Russian port of Novorossiysk was struck and disabled by Ukrainian sea drones. The incident is believed to be the third such case in recent weeks involving vessels described as part of Russia’s “shadow fleet”.

The ITF said that although the vessels might be linked to sanctions evasion or political tensions, the crews onboard are civilians and not part of the conflict.

Mark Dickinson, Vice Chair of the ITF Seafarers’ Section and General Secretary of Nautilus International, added that seafarers should never be treated as tools of war. They are civilians simply doing their jobs in difficult and risky conditions.

Dickinson also pointed to the Flag of Convenience system, under which shipowners register vessels in states with weak oversight. He said many seafarers on these vessels come from countries with few job opportunities, giving them little choice to refuse dangerous voyages or clear information about their ship’s route and risks.

He added that, no matter a ship’s flag, its cargo, or the political situation, putting seafarers in danger is unacceptable. No military or political goal can justify risking civilian crews.

The ITF warned that crews working on vessels without strong regulatory frameworks are among the most vulnerable in the global shipping industry. These seafarers often face heightened risks of exploitation and unsafe working conditions, which are further intensified when conflict extends into commercial shipping lanes.

Since the start of the Russia–Ukraine war, the Black Sea has become a high-risk area for merchant vessels, with civilian crews facing ongoing threats from sea mines, drones and missile strikes.

The federation urged all parties to respect international law, reduce tensions, and protect civilian seafarers. It said it continues to monitor the situation and support any seafarers affected in the Black Sea or other conflict zones.

Reference: ITF