India Voices Concern Over Attacks on Commercial Vessels, Summons Ukraine Envoy

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India summoned the Ukrainian ambassador to express its deep concerns following a tragic incident involving the commercial vessel MV OMORFI. This attack, which occurred on July 18, resulted in the death of an Indian national and raised significant alarms over maritime safety in the Black Sea region.

According to official statements from the MEA, the MV OMORFI was reportedly navigating through Russian territorial waters when it came under attack. In response to this grave incident, India conveyed its serious apprehensions to Ambassador Oleksandr Polishchuk, urging the Ukrainian government to take note of the escalating threat to commercial shipping in these waters. The Indian government has firmly condemned any actions that jeopardize the safety of civilian seafarers.

The MEA emphasized that ongoing attacks on commercial vessels not only pose a direct risk to the lives of crew members but also threaten the broader principles of maritime safety and the freedom of navigation essential for global trade. In light of these developments, the Indian government has called for immediate measures to ensure the protection of commercial shipping interests.

Adding to the tensions, reports surfaced of another incident involving a vessel carrying four Indian nationals, which was reportedly struck by a projectile while docked at the port of Odesa. Fortunately, two of the seafarers are confirmed to be safe, though information regarding the remaining two is still pending. This incident occurred just a day after four Indian nationals lost their lives, and another sustained critical injuries when their cargo ship was attacked shortly after departing from Odesa.

In this context, the Indian Embassy in Kyiv is actively monitoring the situation and is engaged with local authorities to gather information regarding the well-being of the Indian seafarers involved. The Indian government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens abroad, particularly in conflict-affected areas. The escalation of hostilities in the Black Sea has raised concern among various nations, and India’s strong stance serves to underscore the importance of protecting maritime routes that are vital for international trade and security.

Source: scroll.in