Four Indian nationals were killed and another remains in critical condition after a commercial cargo vessel came under missile attack while departing Ukraine’s Odesa port, prompting India to strongly condemn the strike and call for the protection of civilian shipping.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the attack occurred on the evening of July 19 when the MV Golden Leo was leaving Odesa. The vessel had 17 crew members on board, including five Indian nationals.

In a statement, the MEA expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Indian lives and extended condolences to the bereaved families. The ministry also wished the injured Indian crew member a speedy recovery.

“Our Mission in Ukraine is closely monitoring the situation and is making every effort to extend all possible assistance to those affected,” the ministry said.

India also strongly condemned the attack, stating that targeting commercial shipping, endangering civilian crew members, and disrupting freedom of navigation and international trade are unacceptable and should be avoided.

Ukrainian authorities said the Guinea-Bissau-flagged MV Golden Leo, carrying a cargo of corn, was struck by three Russian cruise missiles while departing the Black Sea port. The vessel, owned by Mumbai-based Ocean Grace Shipping Ltd, caught fire following the impact.

Ukraine’s seaports authority said rescue operations continued through the night. Of the 17 crew members on board, eight were rescued, while several others were killed or injured. The crew reportedly included both Indian and Syrian nationals.

The attack is being described by Ukrainian officials as one of the deadliest incidents involving commercial shipping during the recent escalation of fighting in the Black Sea region.

The tragedy comes as Russia and Ukraine continue to intensify military operations. Ukrainian officials reported that Russian strikes have killed dozens of civilians in the Odesa region this month, while Russia also reported casualties from Ukrainian drone attacks in its Belgorod region.

The latest incident underscores the growing risks faced by civilian merchant vessels operating in the conflict zone and has renewed international concerns about the safety of commercial shipping in the Black Sea.