Indian Crew Member Killed in Black Sea Attack on Commercial Ship, MEA Condemns Strike
New Delhi: An Indian national has died after a commercial cargo vessel came under attack while sailing through the Black Sea, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed on Friday. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
In a statement issued late on Friday, the MEA said the commercial vessel MV OMORFI was attacked on 18 July while transiting the Black Sea, reportedly in Russian territorial waters.
According to the ministry, one Indian crew member lost his life in the attack.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved family of the victim,” the MEA said.
At the time of the incident, the ship had 10 crew members, including three Indian nationals. The ministry confirmed that the other two Indian crew members are safe.
Describing the incident as a matter of serious concern, the MEA strongly condemned attacks on commercial shipping.
“India unequivocally condemns such attacks targeting commercial shipping and placing the lives of innocent civilian crew members at risk,” the ministry said.
The MEA also warned that growing threats to the freedom of navigation and international trade are becoming increasingly worrying.
The Indian Embassy in Russia has contacted the relevant authorities and is providing all possible assistance to the family of the deceased sailor.
India has urged all parties involved to respect international obligations and ensure the safety and security of maritime navigation, while allowing global trade to continue without disruption.
The latest incident comes just days after another attack on the Guinea-Bissau-flagged cargo vessel MV Golden Leo on 19 July, shortly after it departed a Ukrainian port. In that attack, four Indian crew members were killed, while another Indian sailor was critically injured.
The back-to-back attacks have raised fresh concerns over the safety of commercial shipping and civilian seafarers as tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue.
