India Summons Russian Diplomat After Four Nationals Killed in Missile Strike on Ship
India has summoned Russia's chargé d'affaires Vladimir Ladanov to protest the death of four Indian nationals in a Russian missile strike on the merchant vessel 'Golden Leo' in the Black Sea near Odesa.
India's Ministry of External Affairs summoned Russia's chargé d'affaires Vladimir Ladanov on Tuesday to lodge a strong protest over a missile strike that killed four Indian citizens over the weekend. The attack targeted the merchant ship 'Golden Leo', which was sailing under the flag of Guinea-Bissau and carrying a cargo of corn. The incident occurred on Sunday in the Black Sea near Odesa, with Russian forces using three missiles.
A total of 18 people were aboard the vessel: five Indian nationals, 12 Syrians, and one Ukrainian pilot. The strike claimed ten lives, including four Indians. One Indian citizen was seriously injured and remains in critical condition. The Indian government confirmed the casualties.
During the meeting, Ladanov was handed an official protest note. In a statement, India's Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that attacks on commercial ships and the resulting civilian deaths are unacceptable. The statement also noted that such actions threaten the safety, security, and stability of international maritime navigation. Information about the incident was provided by the Ukrainian Air and Naval Forces.
