NEW DELHI / ODESA — In a major tragedy in the Black Sea, four Indian nationals lost their lives and another remains in critical condition after a commercial cargo ship was struck by cruise missiles while departing the Ukrainian port of Odesa on the evening of July 19.
The vessel, MV Golden Leo, was carrying corn and had a total crew of 17 members from India and Syria, along with a maritime pilot. According to Ukrainian naval authorities, the Guinea-Bissau-flagged ship was hit by three Russian cruise missiles, triggering a massive fire on board.
Heavy Loss of Civilian Lives
A search and rescue operation conducted overnight by Ukraine’s seaports authority recovered the bodies of nine crew members and one maritime pilot. Eight crew members were safely rescued. Out of the five Indian nationals aboard, four succumbed to their injuries, while the fifth is battling for life in critical condition.
The vessel is owned by Mumbai-based Ocean Grace Shipping Ltd.
India Condemns Attack on Commercial Vessel
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a strong condemnation following the incident, stressing that targeting commercial shipping and endangering civilian lives violates freedom of navigation and international trade principles.
”Our Mission in Ukraine is closely monitoring the situation and is making every effort to extend all possible assistance to those affected,” the MEA stated, expressing deep condolences to the bereaved families.
Escalation in Black Sea Conflict
The strike marks the deadliest attack on commercial shipping in the Black Sea in recent weeks. Regional authorities in Odesa reported an escalation in missile strikes across the area, while cross-border counterattacks between Russian and Ukrainian forces continue to heighten risks for civilian mariners operating along critical maritime trade corridors.
