Major attack on cargo ship in Black Sea, tragic death of an Indian citizen; MEA expressed strong objection

A very shocking news is coming out from the Black Sea, where an Indian citizen has lost his life in a horrific attack on a cargo ship passing through the Russian maritime border area on July 18. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), while officially confirming this on Friday, has expressed deep grief and strong objection to the incident. The commercial ship ‘MV Omorphy’ which was targeted in this attack had a total of 10 crew members on board, including 3 Indian citizens. One Indian died in this tragic accident, while it is a matter of relief that the remaining two Indians are said to be safe. India in contact with Russian officials, all possible help will be provided to the victim’s family. After this incident came to light, the Indian Embassy and Mission officials in Russia are in constant touch with the local Russian administration so that the mortal remains of the deceased Indian sailor can be brought back home as soon as possible and all possible assistance can be provided to the victim’s family. The Government of India has bluntly said that targeting cargo and commercial ships in this manner and putting the lives of innocent civilians in danger is highly condemnable. India has appealed to the international community and all parties involved in the conflict to strictly adhere to their international obligations and ensure the security of global sea lanes at all costs. Moscow’s claim on Odessa port attack rejected, the ship was loaded with grains. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, during a regular media briefing, also mentioned another attack near Odessa port off the coast of Ukraine, in which Guinea-Bissau-flagged commercial ship ‘MV Golden Leo’ was targeted. A total of 10 people, including four Indians, were killed in this attack. In this matter, India has almost rejected Russia’s claim that there was military equipment on the ship. Citing concrete data received from DG Shipping (Directorate General of Shipping), India has clarified that ‘MV Golden Leo’ had loaded only cargo of grains before leaving on July 19. Double appeal not to target commercial ships: The Ministry of External Affairs has given a strong message that under no circumstances should commercial ships and innocent seafarers be made pawns amid the current regional tensions or war situations. This stand of India makes it clear that it is completely serious about international maritime trade and the safety of its citizens. In the last few days, the increasing attacks on ships in the Black Sea and its surrounding maritime areas have given global shipping and security agencies sleepless nights, creating an atmosphere of constant worry among the families of seafarers traveling on the sea routes.