India strongly condemned attacks on two commercial vessels in the Black Sea, resulting in the death of five Indian nationals and injuring several others.
On July 18, the commercial vessel MV OMORFI was attacked while transiting the Black Sea, allegedly within Russian territorial waters. The ship had 10 crew members on board, including three Indian nationals. One Indian sailor lost his life in the attack, while the other two are safe.
On July 19, another commercial vessel, MV Golden Leo, was reportedly struck shortly after departing Ukraine’s Odesa port. The vessel had 17 crew members, including five Indian nationals. Four Indian crew members were killed in the attack, while one sustained critical injuries.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described such attacks as unacceptable and expressed condolences to the bereaved families. India unequivocally condemned the targeting of commercial shipping and civilian crew members. The ministry considered it a matter of serious concern that freedom of navigation and international commerce are facing increasing threats.
The MEA urged all concerned parties to uphold their international obligations to ensure the safety and security of maritime navigation and the uninterrupted flow of global trade.
Source:
Akashvani News
