Black Sea becomes most dangerous maritime route in 2026

The Black Sea has become the world's most dangerous maritime route in 2026, according to a Wall Street Journal analysis. More than 300 attacks have been recorded in the region this year, resulting in at least 30 sailors killed and over 20 missing, figures from maritime security firm Ambrey and the Turkish Shipowners' Association show.

By comparison, about 130 attacks and 25 deaths have been reported in the Strait of Hormuz and wider Middle East since late February, according to the International Maritime Organization.

Shipping companies have largely avoided waters off Ukraine and Russia, but recent incidents have extended towards Romania and Bulgaria, both NATO members. Nearly half of the attacks on twelve vessels off the two countries in October led to deaths, disappearances or injuries, the WSJ reported. Some European leaders have attributed the attacks to Russia, but Moscow has denied any involvement.

Romanian officials are stepping up security measures. Defence Minister Radu Oprea said the Black Sea exclusive economic zone is already safe and will become safer once new French-made Thales radars arrive next year under the SAFE programme. The radars will improve drone detection and allow earlier intervention, he told Digi24. Oprea added that Romania and Bulgaria are setting up joint maritime command centres to improve surveillance and information exchange.

The European Commission announced plans this week to accelerate creation of a Black Sea maritime security centre. At a European Political Community meeting in Dublin, President Nicușor Dan said the Black Sea was mentioned several times as a security risk for Europe, and that leaders discussed hybrid warfare, disinformation and the need for more trade partners.

Commercial activity in the Black Sea has dropped sharply: the number of ships entering through the Bosphorus fell by 41% in October compared with the same month last year, according to Global Fishing Watch.