India has lodged a strong diplomatic protest with Russia after four Indian merchant navy personnel were killed in an attack on a cargo vessel departing Ukraine’s Odesa port
India on Tuesday summoned Russia’s Charge d’Affaires in New Delhi after four Indian seafarers were killed in an attack on the merchant vessel MV Golden Leo off Ukraine’s southern coast, marking one of the strongest diplomatic responses by New Delhi since the conflict began.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) conveyed its serious concern and strong protest over the incident, describing the attack on a commercial vessel carrying civilian crew members as “deplorable” and inconsistent with the principles of safe international navigation. India also sought a detailed explanation from the Russian side regarding the strike.
The Guinea-Bissau-flagged MV Golden Leo was struck while departing Ukraine’s port of Odesa. The attack claimed the lives of four Indian crew members and left another Indian critically injured. The vessel was carrying a multinational crew when it came under fire amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The MEA reiterated that attacks on merchant shipping endanger innocent civilian lives and threaten the freedom of global maritime commerce. Indian missions have been directed to provide all possible assistance to the affected crew members and maintain contact with the families of those killed.
The incident has once again highlighted the growing risks faced by merchant sailors operating in conflict zones. India has consistently urged all parties to ensure the safety of civilian shipping and uphold international maritime norms, even as hostilities in the Black Sea region continue.
The deaths have also renewed concerns over the safety of thousands of Indian seafarers serving aboard international merchant vessels navigating waters affected by the Russia-Ukraine war. The government is expected to continue engaging diplomatically while monitoring the security of Indian nationals working in high-risk maritime regions.
For all the latest updates, download PGurus App.
Why is a Tug’s picture on the headlines when the vessel attacked was cargo ship some editorial over sight would look better