Indian citizens killed in attack on merchant ship MV Golden Leo in Odesa

Kathmandu. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has informed that an attack took place on the merchant ship 'MV Golden Leo' while departing from Odesa, Ukraine, and 4 Indian citizens were killed in the incident.

According to a statement issued by the ministry, the ship was attacked on July 19 while departing from the port of Odesa, Ukraine. Another Indian citizen was seriously injured in the incident. The Indian government has expressed deep sorrow over this incident and strongly condemned the attack.

However, the statement did not clarify who carried out the attack.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, a total of 17 crew members were on board the ship at the time of the incident, including 5 Indian citizens.

Condemning the incident, India stated that targeting merchant ships and endangering the lives of innocent crew members is an extremely reprehensible act. The government also clarified that obstructing maritime traffic and trade is unacceptable.

The Ministry of External Affairs has stated that the Indian mission in Ukraine is closely monitoring the situation and is making efforts to provide all possible assistance to the affected individuals.

Similarly, India has reiterated the need to avoid such incidents that affect merchant shipping and international trade and to ensure the safety of citizens.