Four Indian sailors killed in a ship attack near Odesa have shocked the nation. On Sunday evening, Russia struck the vessel. In response, India’s government issued a strong statement on Monday.
The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the deaths. One more Indian sailor is now critically hurt. Furthermore, the ministry called the loss deeply painful.
MEA Confirms Death of Indian Sailors
The vessel MV Golden Leo was leaving Odesa port. It had seventeen crew members on board. Five of them were Indian nationals. According to officials, four Indian sailors died in the strike. Meanwhile, one sailor remains in hospital, badly hurt. The ministry shared this update on Monday night.
India’s mission in Ukraine is watching the case closely. It is also helping the injured man and his family. Moreover, diplomats are remaining in touch with the other families.
India Condemns Attack on Indian Sailors
New Delhi called the strike on the ship deplorable. According to the ministry, such attacks put innocent sailors at grave risk. Therefore, India wants safe seas for all merchant ships.
The ministry did not name the attacker directly. However, Ukraine’s government pointed the finger at Russia. Kyiv said its forces fired at the vessel. Ukraine’s foreign minister said the ship was in a safe corridor. He said Russia struck it anyway. Additionally, he said a Ukrainian pilot on board died.
First Such Loss Since the War Began
This is the first time Indian sailors have died in this war. The war began in February 2022. Indian crews had largely stayed safe until now.
The loss comes at a hard time for Indian sailors. In addition, other Indian crew members have died in Gulf attacks as well. Ship crews face growing danger in conflict zones worldwide. Meanwhile, news of the Indian sailors killed spread quickly across the country. India has sent condolences to the grieving families. It has also wished the injured sailor a speedy recovery.
India’s Large Seafarer Workforce
Indian sailors form a big share of world shipping crews. In fact, nearly one in six sailors worldwide is Indian today. India ranks among the top three seafarer-supplying nations globally.
Thousands of young Indians join foreign ships every year for work. Many serve on vessels that sail through conflict zones. This scale means more Indian crew face danger during global tensions.
What to Watch Next
India’s mission will keep helping the affected families. More details may emerge in the coming days. The government’s next steps on sailor safety will draw close attention.
Source: MEA
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