India summoned a senior Russian diplomat on Tuesday and raised concerns over the deaths of four Indian sailors in a Black Sea cargo ship strike. The incident involved a vessel leaving a Ukrainian port.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs said Russian chargé d’affaires Vladimir Ladanov was called in and informed of New Delhi’s concerns. The ministry described attacks on commercial shipping as unacceptable.
Read more: Sec Janjua lauds Russia for mediation offer amid Pak-India standoff
Ukraine said Russia targeted the Golden Leo cargo ship with three cruise missiles on Sunday. The strike reportedly killed 10 people, including four Indian nationals from the ship’s crew.
Meanwhile, India said such attacks threaten the safety and stability of international maritime trade. The vessel was flagged to Guinea-Bissau and carried Indian and Syrian crew members.
Russia said it was communicating with India over the incident. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Russian forces target vessels linked to transporting weapons and military supplies.
Read more: World leaders ask Pakistan, India to show restraint
The Golden Leo is owned by Mumbai-based Ocean Grace Shipping Ltd, according to shipping data. India has previously raised concerns with other countries over the deaths of Indian sailors during conflicts.
The latest diplomatic move highlights growing concerns over the safety of commercial shipping in conflict zones. India continues to seek protection for its citizens working in international maritime sectors.