‘Deplorable’: MEA reacts as 4 Indians killed in Odesa ship attack amid Russia-Ukraine war
Kyiv: Four Indian nationals were killed and one was critically injured after the MV Golden Leo vessel was attacked while departing Ukraine’s southern port city of Odesa on July 19, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.
According to the MEA, the ship had 17 crew members on board, including five Indian nationals. The ministry said India’s mission in Ukraine is closely monitoring the situation and providing all possible assistance to those affected.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the deceased Indian nationals and wish the injured Indian national a speedy and full recovery,” the MEA said in a statement.
Ship attacked while leaving Odesa port
The MV Golden Leo, a Guinea-Bissau-flagged vessel, came under attack as it was leaving the Odesa port. Ukraine’s navy said the ship was struck by three cruise missiles.
The vessel was carrying a crew comprising Indian and Syrian nationals. According to shipping data, the ship is owned by Mumbai-based Ocean Grace Shipping Ltd.
The attack occurred amid ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, with maritime routes and commercial shipping in the Black Sea facing repeated security challenges.
The Ministry of External Affairs condemned the attack and said targeting commercial vessels and endangering civilian crew members was unacceptable.
“India condemns such attacks and reiterates that targeting commercial shipping and endangering innocent civilian crew members, or otherwise impeding freedom of navigation and commerce, is deplorable and should be avoided,” the ministry said.
India also stressed the importance of protecting international shipping and ensuring the safety of people working in maritime sectors.
Separate attack on Odesa kills civilians
Separately, another attack on Odesa reportedly killed three people and injured others, according to local Ukrainian officials.
The attack affected infrastructure facilities in the port city, and search and rescue operations continued after the incident.
The latest developments highlight the risks faced by civilian workers and commercial vessels operating in conflict-affected regions.
The Indian mission in Ukraine continues to coordinate with authorities and provide support to affected families and the injured crew member.
The MEA has assured that further updates will be shared as more information becomes available regarding the incident and the condition of those affected.