Merchant ship MV AGN Ragnar struck at Odesa Port in Ukraine: Four Indian crew members onboard

Kyiv: India’s diplomatic mission in Ukraine reported on Sunday that a merchant ship with four Indian crew members was hit at the port of Odesa, leaving two individuals confirmed safe while details regarding the remaining two are still pending.

Writing via X, the embassy confirmed that rescue efforts are actively underway.

The Indian mission also stated that it maintains regular contact with relevant officials.

"Embassy of India in Ukraine is closely monitoring the situation following the incident involving MV AGN Ragnar which was struck at the Port of Odesa, on 25 July. Four Indian nationals were on board the vessel. As per the latest information, two have been confirmed safe, and information is awaited regarding the other two nationals. Search and rescue operations are underway. The Embassy is in constant touch with the concerned authorities," the embassy posted on X.

Additionally, the mission published designated communication channels for assistance:

"Point of Contact, Embassy of India, Ukraine cons.kyiv@mea.gov.in, cons1.kyiv@mea.gov.in Our Emergency contact no. - +380933559958 Mr. Aji Kumar, SS ( Consular) @MEAIndia," it noted.

Given that security conditions across the Black Sea and adjacent maritime zones remain severely unstable owing to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the administration has urged citizens considering jobs on commercial ships in the area to evaluate potential dangers thoroughly prior to signing contracts.

In a comprehensive advisory directed at citizens taking on roles aboard commercial vessels within the Black Sea corridor, the Ministry of External Affairs emphasised that employment terms must align with recognised international maritime regulations.

Citizens seeking consular support are encouraged to reach out directly to the Indian embassy or local consulates throughout the area.

ANI