Four Indian nationals were killed when a missile struck a ship shortly after it left Ukraine's Odesa port, prompting India's foreign ministry to summon Russia's diplomat and lodge a strong protest.
What Happened in the Attack
According to news reports, the ship came under missile attack right after departing Ukraine's Odesa port, killing four Indian nationals. India's Ministry of External Affairs strongly condemned the attack.
India's Foreign Ministry Response
Following the attack, India's foreign ministry summoned the Russian diplomat and formally conveyed India's concerns and objections over the incident. The ministry said India condemns such attacks on commercial vessels and expects Russia to take these concerns seriously.
From Hormuz to the Black Sea: India's Concern
According to news reports, after attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz, the Indian government has now issued a firm message over attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea as well. The government says attacks on commercial shipping worldwide must stop, as they endanger the lives of ordinary civilians.
Not the First Such Incident
This is not the first time Indian nationals have died in such an attack. According to news reports, an earlier incident involving the United States also resulted in the deaths of Indian nationals. Separately, the central government recently told the Supreme Court that 217 Indian nationals had joined the Russian army, of whom 49 have died.
US Tariff Threat Over Russian Oil
Meanwhile, according to news reports, the United States is considering imposing tariffs of up to 100% on countries that buy oil from Russia, and India is on that list. This could open another front of tension between India, Russia and the United States.
