Russia confirms contact with India over Black Sea missile strike killing four Indian sailors
Moscow has confirmed it is in communication with New Delhi following a missile strike on a cargo ship in the Black Sea that killed four Indian nationals. The Kremlin stated on Tuesday that it remains in contact with its Indian partners after the incident.
According to Ukrainian authorities, Russia struck the 'Golden Leo', a vessel flagged to Guinea-Bissau, with three cruise missiles on Sunday as it departed the port of Odesa. The attack killed ten crew members, including four Indians and several Syrians. The ship was manned by a multinational crew.
In response, India summoned the Russian chargé d’affaires in New Delhi to register its protest and seek clarification. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims and reiterated the need for safe passage of commercial vessels.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Tuesday that Russia would continue to target vessels involved in supplying the Ukrainian military. He did not directly comment on the specific attack but emphasised that Moscow views such shipments as legitimate military targets.
The incident comes amid ongoing hostilities in the region, with Russia frequently striking Ukrainian port infrastructure. The Black Sea has been a key route for grain exports and other commercial shipping, with both sides accusing each other of endangering civilian vessels.
India has called for restraint and respect for international maritime law, urging all parties to ensure the safety of civilian ships and crews. The Indian government is monitoring the situation closely and has offered support to the families of the deceased.
