India Condemns Russian Strike on Cargo Ship
India has condemned a Russian drone strike on a civilian cargo vessel in the Black Sea after two crew members were killed and three Indian nationals aboard the ship were taken for medical treatment in Romania.
Indian Sailors Safe After Black Sea Strike
The Turkish-owned cargo vessel MV Royad Mammadov was struck outside Romania’s territorial waters, triggering a fire and causing casualties among the crew.
Three Indian nationals were aboard the vessel. One was initially reported injured, while Indian officials later confirmed that all three were in good health and receiving necessary medical attention at Constanța County Hospital.
Indian Ambassador Manoj Mohapatra spoke with the sailors and hospital authorities and assured them of all possible assistance.
Two Crew Members Killed in Russian Drone Attack
At least two crew members were reported killed in the attack, although their nationalities were not immediately confirmed.
Ukrainian authorities said the vessel was hit by a Russian drone while operating in the Black Sea. Eleven crew members were reported rescued following the strike.
The attack has renewed concerns over the safety of commercial shipping in waters affected by the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
India Calls Attacks on Civilian Shipping Unacceptable
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said attacks on civilian shipping, whether in the Black Sea or Gulf region, were “completely unacceptable”.
India has reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy remain the preferred route for resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict and has increased diplomatic engagement with both Moscow and Kyiv in recent months.
New Delhi is continuing to monitor the welfare of the Indian sailors while Romanian authorities provide medical support.
