Panama confirms deadly drone attack on vessel in Black Sea

The Panama Maritime Authority (PMA) has confirmed reports of a drone attack on one of its flagged vessels in the Black Sea area late last week (18 June). According to preliminary information it has received, one crew member was killed and two other seafarers injured, one of them still in a serious condition.

The PMA is gathering official information about what happened and is maintaining communication with the parties involved and the competent authorities, in order to verify the details of the incident and ascertain the condition of the crew. The vessel was able to continue its voyage.

Panama says that as a responsible Flag State it deeply regrets the loss of human life and extends its condolences to the family members of the deceased crew member, as well as its wishes for a speedy recovery to the injured seafarers.

Vessels under the Panamanian flag are advised to take all necessary security measures and, if possible, avoid transiting Ukrainian and Russian waters in the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov.

The PMA reiterates its commitment to the safety of human life at sea, the protection of international navigation, and compliance with applicable international maritime instruments.