Nautilus condemns Ukraine attack on commercial vessel in the Black Sea

Nautilus International has joined the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) in denouncing an attack on merchant shipping in the Black Sea by the Ukrainian armed forces – warning that civilian seafarers must never be treated as targets and that their safety and rights must be protected at all times. 

Reports suggest that a tanker transiting Ukraine's exclusive economic zone on a voyage to Novorossiysk was struck and disabled by Ukrainian sea drones. The incident is believed to be the third in recent weeks involving vessels identified as part of Russia’s so-called shadow fleet. 

Nautilus general secretary Mark Dickinson is also vice chair of the ITF Seafarers' Section. In a statement issued by the ITF, he said: 'Seafarers are not a weapon of war. They are civilians simply doing their jobs, often in extremely difficult and precarious conditions.  

'Under the Flag of Convenience system – where shipowners register vessels in countries without a genuine link and therefore weak oversight – many seafarers are recruited from nations where decent job opportunities are scarce. That leaves them with little real power to refuse dangerous voyages, and often without clear information about where a ship is bound or the risks involved. 

'Regardless of the flag a vessel flies, the cargo it carries, or the politics surrounding a conflict, targeting seafarers or placing them in harm’s way is completely unacceptable.'

Since the start of the Russia–Ukraine war, the Black Sea has become an increasingly dangerous operating environment, with merchant seafarers facing persistent threats from mines, drones and missile strikes. 

The ITF reiterated calls for all parties to uphold international humanitarian and maritime law, de-escalate tensions and take all necessary steps to safeguard civilian seafarers. It continues to monitor the situation closely and stands ready to support any seafarers affected. 

'Many of these seafarers are already working at the sharp end of an industry that too often fails them,' Mr Dickinson added. 'Seafarers keep global trade moving, even during times of war and crisis. They must not be treated as expendable or as collateral damage. Nautilus and the ITF condemn any attack that harms or endangers seafarers anywhere in the world, and we will continue to speak out until their safety is fully respected.' 

• Nautilus member raises concerns about Black Sea attack - see Letters to the editor