The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India has summoned Oleksandr Polishchuk, Ukraine’s Ambassador to India, to express profound concern over attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea. This diplomatic action follows the reported death of an Indian seafarer during the assault on the merchant vessel MV OMORFI. The MEA’s statement highlights a growing apprehension over rising threats to civilian shipping amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

India’s official summons to the Ukrainian envoy pertains specifically to the assault on MV OMORFI, which occurred on July 18. The tragic incident resulted in the death of Chief Officer Sagar Gupta, as identified by the Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI). In the wake of these events, the MEA outlined its serious stance on the safety of maritime navigation.

During the discussions, the MEA reiterated its condemnation of attacks against commercial shipping, labelling them unacceptable due to their detrimental impact on international commerce and maritime safety.

India’s Diplomatic Response

The MEA emphasised that Ukraine should communicate India’s concerns to its government regarding the targeting of commercial vessels. The ministry stressed that actions endangering the lives of civilian sailors must be avoided and condemned in the strongest terms. Such diplomatic measures highlight India’s focus on safeguarding its national interests and the wellbeing of its citizens abroad.

In an official statement, the MEA expressed that the repeated assaults pose significant threats not only to the safety of seafarers but also to freedom of navigation in international waters. The ministry’s firm stance aims to address the implications of the ongoing conflict on commercial shipping operations.

Following this meeting, the Ukrainian Embassy in New Delhi conveyed its condolences for the lives lost among Indian nationals. It reaffirmed that threats to maritime navigation largely originate from Russian military actions in the Black Sea, further complicating the situation for civilian sailors.

Subsequent Maritime Incidents

This incident follows a previous attack on July 19, where four Indian seafarers lost their lives on the vessel MV Golden Leo while departing from Odesa. The escalating frequency of such incidents highlights the dangers faced by Indian seafarers operating in conflict zones, necessitating increased attention from the Indian government.

In light of these developments, the Ministry of External Affairs issued a detailed advisory on July 23 to Indian nationals contemplating employment on commercial vessels operating in or near the Black Sea. The advisory cautioned prospective seafarers to scrutinise the volatile security environment and seek comprehensive guidance from employers regarding safety measures and emergency protocols.

Advisory recommendations included ensuring employment contracts comply with international maritime standards and emphasising the importance of family communication regarding seafarers’ movements. As the situation continues to evolve, the MEA remains committed to protecting Indian nationals engaged in maritime activities in the region.

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