MEA says attack on commercial vessel near Odesa is unacceptable as one Indian crew member remains critically injured
PRAVASISAMWAD.COM
India has strongly condemned the attack on a commercial cargo vessel off Ukraine’s Black Sea coast that claimed the lives of four Indian seafarers and left another critically injured, describing the strike on civilian shipping as unacceptable.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the Guinea-Bissau-flagged cargo vessel MV Golden Leo was attacked while departing the Ukrainian port of Odesa on July 19. The ship was carrying a crew of 17, including five Indian nationals. Four Indians died in the incident, while the fifth suffered critical injuries and is receiving medical treatment.
In an official statement, the MEA expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Indian lives and extended condolences to the bereaved families. It said the government was in close contact with the victims’ families, the shipping company and the relevant authorities, and that all possible assistance was being provided.
-
India also denounced the attack on the merchant vessel, stressing that commercial shipping should never be targeted and that the safety of civilian crews must be protected
-
The ministry said such incidents violate the principles of freedom of navigation and international commerce
While India did not identify those responsible, Ukrainian authorities alleged that the vessel was struck by three cruise missiles fired by Russian forces shortly after leaving Odesa. Russia has not immediately commented on the allegation.
The attack comes amid renewed hostilities in the Black Sea, where commercial shipping has increasingly faced security risks since the escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Maritime experts have warned that attacks on civilian vessels could further disrupt regional trade and global grain exports.
The Indian government said it would continue monitoring the situation closely and remain engaged with all concerned authorities to support the injured crew member and facilitate assistance to the families of those killed.
