Since the beginning of 2026, over 570 attacks have occurred on commercial vessels in the Black Sea, resulting in at least 40 sailors' deaths. This makes the route through the Black Sea one of the most dangerous maritime paths in the world, even more perilous than the Strait of Hormuz.
Statistics of Attacks and Consequences
According to the Financial Times, there has been a significant increase in attacks on vessels in the Black Sea. In the third quarter of 2026, the average number of attacks was over four per day. In comparison, the Strait of Hormuz has recorded 24 confirmed fatalities for the entire year.
- 570 attacks on vessels in the Black Sea since the beginning of the year.
- 40 sailors killed.
- Fewer than 10 vessels passed through the ports of Greater Odesa in September 2026.
- Approximately 400 vessels passed through the ports in July 2026.
Impact on Shipping
The head of the Ukrainian Maritime Transport Workers' Union, Oleg Grygoriyuk, stated that being in the Black Sea has become almost suicidal due to the constant threat to life. Shipowners are increasingly refusing to send their vessels to this region due to high risks and lower profitability compared to other routes, such as the Persian Gulf.
Moreover, the cost of war insurance for vessels entering the Black Sea can reach 15% of the vessel's hull value, nearly double that for ships in the Persian Gulf. Some companies are forced to use older tankers that are cheaper to insure, but they may be less safe.
Export and Redirecting Cargo
The escalation of the situation in the Black Sea has negatively impacted Ukrainian exports. According to the largest private port operator TIS, the ports of Greater Odesa handled fewer than 10 vessels in September, while in July there were about 400. Ukraine is forced to redirect grain through smaller Danube ports, which are also under attack.