Indian killed in attack on vessel in Russian waters
Black Sea: An Indian national tragically lost their life in a recent attack on a commercial vessel in the Black Sea, prompting strong condemnation from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and renewed calls for international adherence to maritime safety protocols amidst escalating threats to global commerce.
An Indian national was killed in an attack on the commercial vessel MV OMORFI on July 18 in the Black Sea, reportedly within Russian territorial waters.
Two other Indian nationals on board the MV OMORFI are reported to be safe following the incident. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has condemned the attack, emphasising the increasing threats to freedom of navigation and international commerce.
India has urged all parties to uphold international obligations to ensure the safety and security of maritime navigation.
This incident follows another attack on July 19 where four Indians were among 10 killed on the MV Golden Leo off the coast of Ukraine, prompting New Delhi to summon the Russian Charge d'affaires.
An Indian national was killed in an attack on a commercial vessel while it was reportedly transiting Russian territorial waters in the Black Sea on July 18, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday.
The fresh incident comes to light days after the MEA said four Indians were among 10 killed in an attack on a commercial vessel off the coast of Ukraine on July 19.
Details of the MV OMORFI Attack : 'It has come to our attention that on July 18, the commercial vessel MV OMORFI was attacked while transiting the Black Sea, reportedly in Russian territorial waters. At the time of the incident, there were 10 crew members on board, including three Indian nationals,' the MEA said.
'As per available information, one Indian national tragically lost his life in the attack. We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved family of the deceased. The other two Indian nationals on board are reported to be safe,' it said in a statement.
India's Condemnation and Call for Action : The MEA said the Indian mission in Russia has reached out to the relevant authorities and is making efforts to extend all possible assistance to the affected family.
'India unequivocally condemns such attacks targeting commercial shipping and placing the lives of innocent civilian crew members at risk. It is a matter of serious concern that the freedom of navigation and international commerce is facing increasing threats,' it said.
'India calls upon all concerned parties to uphold international obligations to ensure the safety and security of maritime navigation and uninterrupted flow of global commerce,' the MEA added.
Previous Incident and Diplomatic Response
New Delhi summoned the Russian Charge d'affaires on Tuesday following the killing of the four Indians in the strike on the MV Golden Leo vessel on July 19.
