On Tuesday, 21st July, India summoned Russian Charge d’Affaires Vladimir Ladanov and lodged a strong diplomatic protest after four Indian sailors were killed in a Russian missile strike that hit the merchant vessel MV Golden Leo off the coast of Ukraine. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) conveyed India’s strong objection over the incident, termed the attack “deplorable,” and sought an explanation from the Russian side.
MEA condemns attack on commercial vessel
The diplomatic move came a day after the MEA confirmed that four Indian nationals had lost their lives and another Indian crew member was critically injured in the attack on the Guinea-Bissau-flagged cargo ship MV Golden Leo. The vessel had departed Ukraine’s Odesa port on the evening of 19th July carrying grain when it came under attack.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs Statement:
— Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) July 21, 2026
“Today, the Russian Chargé d'Affaires, Mr. Vladimir Ladanov, was summoned to the Ministry of External Affairs. The Ministry conveyed India's grave concerns and unequivocal condemnation of the attack on the commercial vessel MV… pic.twitter.com/tiBJPzjlvI
In a statement, the MEA said, “As per information available, four Indian nationals have tragically lost their lives, while one is hospitalised in a critical condition.”
The ministry further said, “India condemns such attacks and reiterates that targeting commercial shipping and endangering innocent civilian crew members, or otherwise impeding freedom of navigation and commerce, is deplorable and should be avoided.”
Five Indians were among 17 crew members
According to the MEA, the cargo vessel had 17 crew members, including five Indians. Four Indian sailors were killed in the missile strike, while the fifth was seriously injured and is undergoing treatment. The Indian mission in Ukraine is closely monitoring the situation and extending all possible assistance to those affected.
Ukraine blames Russia for missile strike
Ukrainian authorities have blamed Russia for the attack, saying the MV Golden Leo, which was carrying corn, was hit by three Russian cruise missiles shortly after leaving Odesa. Ukraine’s navy said the ship caught fire following the strike. The incident took place as the war between Russia and Ukraine continues.
India seeks accountability
Government sources said New Delhi has conveyed its serious concern to Moscow and is closely watching developments. By summoning Russian Chargé d’Affaires Vladimir Ladanov, India underlined its demand for accountability over the deaths of its citizens and expressed its deep concern over attacks that put civilian seafarers and commercial shipping at risk.
