NEW DELHI: India on Tuesday summoned Russia’s Charge d’Affaires in New Delhi after four Indian nationals were killed in a deadly attack on the merchant vessel MV Golden Leo near Ukraine’s Odesa coast. The diplomatic move came a day after New Delhi strongly condemned the strike, calling it unacceptable and demanding accountability for the deaths of Indian seafarers.
According to official sources, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) called in the senior-most Russian diplomat to formally convey India’s deep concern over the incident. During the meeting, Indian officials reportedly expressed strong displeasure over the loss of civilian lives and stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of merchant shipping operating in conflict zones.
The attack occurred on July 19 when the Guinea-Bissau-flagged cargo vessel MV Golden Leo was departing from Ukraine’s southern port of Odesa. The ship, carrying a cargo of grain, was struck during the voyage, leading to multiple casualties. The vessel had 17 crew members on board, including five Indians and several Syrian nationals.
Registers Diplomatic Protest
Government sources said New Delhi conveyed its protest directly to the Russian mission and sought clarity regarding the circumstances surrounding the attack. The MEA reiterated that civilian merchant vessels engaged in legitimate commercial operations should never become targets during armed conflicts.
Officials also underlined that international maritime routes must remain safe and secure, particularly for civilian shipping and multinational crews. The government emphasized that attacks endangering innocent seafarers violate the principles of safe navigation and international commerce.
The diplomatic engagement reflects India’s growing concern over the safety of its citizens employed in the global merchant shipping industry, many of whom continue to work in high-risk maritime regions.
Four Killed, One Seriously Injured
The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that four Indian nationals lost their lives in the attack, while another Indian crew member sustained critical injuries and is receiving medical treatment. The identities of the deceased have not yet been officially disclosed pending notification of their families.
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Reports indicate that the vessel caught fire after being hit, prompting emergency rescue operations. Survivors were evacuated as search efforts continued in the Black Sea following the strike.
The tragedy has deeply affected families across India, particularly in coastal states where many citizens work aboard international commercial vessels.
Condemns Attack on Commercial Shipping
Earlier, India issued a strong statement condemning the attack on MV Golden Leo, describing the targeting of a commercial vessel carrying civilian crew members as deplorable.
The MEA stressed that freedom of navigation and the safety of merchant shipping are fundamental principles of international law. It also reaffirmed India’s commitment to protecting its nationals working overseas and said it would continue to monitor developments closely.
Officials added that Indian missions abroad remain in contact with relevant authorities to provide all necessary assistance to the affected families and survivors.
Rising Risks in the Black Sea
The latest incident highlights the increasing dangers faced by merchant vessels operating in the Black Sea amid the continuing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Commercial ships transporting grain and other cargo have repeatedly faced threats as military operations continue around key Ukrainian ports.
According to Ukrainian authorities, the vessel was struck while leaving Odesa, one of Ukraine’s most important maritime gateways. The attack has intensified concerns over the safety of international shipping despite global efforts to maintain commercial trade routes in the region.
Industry experts warn that merchant crews, many of whom come from India and other Asian nations, remain vulnerable while serving aboard international cargo ships operating near conflict zones.
Government Assures Support
The Indian government has assured full support to the families of the deceased seafarers and said all possible diplomatic and consular assistance is being extended.
Officials are coordinating with shipping authorities, local administrations and international agencies to facilitate documentation, medical care for the injured crew member and the repatriation of the mortal remains.
The government is also expected to continue diplomatic engagement as investigations into the attack progress.
New Delhi has consistently maintained that civilian lives must be protected during armed conflicts and has reiterated its call for adherence to international humanitarian law. The deaths of four Indian seafarers aboard MV Golden Leo have added a significant diplomatic dimension to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, with New Delhi seeking accountability while reaffirming its commitment to the safety of Indian citizens working across global maritime routes.
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