India Summons Russian | Hyderabad, July 21 (Maxim News) : India has summoned the Russian Charge d’Affaires and lodged a strong protest after four Indian seafarers died in an attack on a merchant vessel off the coast of Ukraine.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) called the incident unacceptable and condemned attacks on civilian commercial ships.
According to official sources, the MEA conveyed India’s protest to the Russian diplomat. The ministry raised concerns over the attack on MV Golden Leo, a Guinea Bissau flagged merchant vessel carrying five Indian nationals among its 17 crew members.
India Summons Russian Envoy Over Merchant Vessel Attack
The attack took place on July 19 as the vessel departed the Ukrainian port of Odesa through the maritime corridor. Ukrainian authorities said Russian cruise missiles struck the ship during its voyage.
The MEA confirmed that four Indian nationals lost their lives. In addition, another Indian crew member suffered critical injuries and remains under treatment.
The ministry expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims. It also wished the injured seafarer a speedy recovery. Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Ukraine is closely monitoring the situation. It continues to provide all possible assistance to the affected crew members and their families.
MEA reiterated that attacks on commercial shipping
Furthermore, the MEA reiterated that attacks on commercial shipping and innocent civilian crew members are unacceptable. It stressed that freedom of navigation and international maritime trade must remain protected.
Although the MEA did not directly name Russia, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said Russia attacked the civilian vessel navigating Ukraine’s maritime corridor. He added that the crew included citizens of India and Syria.
According to Ukrainian officials, Russian cruise missiles hit the MV Golden Leo. As a result, the incident became the first reported case in which Indian seafarers lost their lives in the Russia Ukraine conflict.
India has consistently called for the safety of civilians during the conflict. Moreover, it has urged all parties to avoid actions that endanger innocent lives or disrupt global trade.
The incident has raised fresh concerns about the safety of merchant ships operating in conflict zones. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the attack. (Maxim News)
Now you can get the latest stories from Indtoday on Telegram every day. Click the link to subscribe. Click to follow Indtoday’s Facebook page, Twitter, and Instagram. For all the latest Hyderabad News updates and Follow us on GoogleNews
