Russia Turns Black Sea Into World’s Deadliest Shipping Route as More Than 570 Ships Are Hit

The Black Sea has become the world’s deadliest shipping route for commercial vessels in 2026, with more than 570 ships struck and at least 40 sailors killed, according to figures cited by the Financial Times from maritime security firm Ambrey and the International Maritime Organization. Attacks surged during the summer: 387 vessels were hit from July through September. Ambrey estimates Russia was responsible for about 90% of attacks on shipping over the past 45 days. The figures indicate a sharp escalation, though reporting remains incomplete.