India Summons Russian Charge d’Affaires Over Deaths of Four Indian Seafarers

New Delhi: India on Tuesday summoned the Russian Charge d’Affaires (CDA) and conveyed its strong objection following the death of four Indian seafarers in an attack on a commercial vessel near the Ukrainian coast.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed serious concerns to the Russian diplomat over the incident involving the Guinea Bissau flagged merchant ship MV Golden Leo, which was reportedly struck while travelling through Ukraine’s maritime corridor.

According to government sources, India conveyed that attacks targeting civilian vessels and putting the lives of innocent crew members at risk are unacceptable. The matter marks the first reported death of Indian seafarers linked to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Four Indians Among Crew Members Killed in Vessel Attack

The MV Golden Leo was carrying 17 crew members, including five Indian nationals, when it came under attack while leaving the port of Odesa on July 19.

The MEA confirmed that four Indian citizens lost their lives in the incident, while another Indian crew member was admitted to a hospital in critical condition.

The ministry said the Indian mission in Ukraine is actively coordinating with local authorities and providing necessary support to the affected families and survivors.

Expressing condolences, the government conveyed sympathy to the families of the deceased sailors and wished a quick recovery for the injured crew member.

Ukraine Accuses Russia of Striking Civilian Ship

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha claimed that Russian forces targeted the civilian vessel while it was operating along Ukraine’s maritime route. He said the crew included nationals from India and Syria.

The Ukrainian Air Force also stated that the ship was hit by Russian cruise missiles. However, Russia has not officially accepted responsibility for the attack.

The incident has raised concerns over the safety of commercial shipping routes in the Black Sea region, where maritime operations remain vulnerable due to the continuing conflict.

India Condemns Attacks on Commercial Shipping

While expressing its concerns, India did not directly name Russia in its official statement but strongly criticised attacks that threaten civilian lives and international trade routes.

The MEA stated that targeting commercial shipping, endangering civilian crew members, or disrupting freedom of navigation and global commerce is unacceptable.

India reiterated that merchant vessels and their crews should remain protected during conflicts, as they play a crucial role in maintaining international supply chains.

Diplomatic Engagement Between India and Russia

India’s decision to summon the Russian diplomat highlights New Delhi’s concerns over the safety of its citizens working in conflict-affected regions.

The government has consistently maintained that conflicts should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy while stressing the importance of protecting civilians.

Thousands of Indian nationals work in international maritime industries, and the latest incident has increased attention on the risks faced by seafarers operating in conflict zones.

Impact on Indian Maritime Community

The deaths of the four sailors have caused concern among India’s maritime community, which has called for stronger safety measures for crew members operating in high-risk areas.

Shipping experts have highlighted the need for better coordination between international agencies, shipping companies, and governments to ensure the protection of seafarers during conflicts.

Commercial vessels often continue operations through designated routes despite geopolitical tensions, making safety protocols and international cooperation extremely important.

Government Assures Support to Families

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that Indian officials are in contact with relevant authorities and are working to provide assistance to the affected families.

The Indian embassy in Ukraine is closely monitoring developments and ensuring that necessary arrangements are made for the deceased and injured crew members.

The government has also assured that all possible help will be extended to those impacted by the tragedy.