The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) called in the Russian Charge d’Affaires after a commercial ship, the MV Golden Leo, was attacked while leaving Odesa port in Ukraine. The assault resulted in the deaths of four Indian crew members, with one individual in critical condition. The MEA expressed condolences to the bereaved families and assured support for the injured person. India strongly denounced the attack, emphasizing the need to safeguard commercial vessels and uphold freedom of navigation.
The vessel, carrying 17 crew members, including five Indians, was targeted by a Russian missile, as reported by the Kyiv Post. The strike on the Turkish-owned cargo ship led to a total of 10 casualties. The Ukraine Air Force disclosed that Russian forces launched three cruise missiles, with one hitting the Golden Leo, causing a fire onboard. Eight sailors were rescued and hospitalized in Odesa. The Russian Ministry of Defence confirmed ongoing strikes on Ukrainian ports and vessels, using various munitions to target port infrastructure.
The Russian military’s operations included the use of anti-ship missiles and air-launched munitions on Ukrainian vessels in the Port of Odesa. The Ministry detailed attacks on specific targets, such as bulk carriers transporting military cargo. The situation remains tense, with concerns over the safety of maritime activities in the region.
