4 Indians Killed After Russia Attacks Cargo Ship in Ukraine
Four Indian crew members were killed after a Russian missile struck the cargo ship MV Golden Leo near Ukraine's Odesa port.
A tragic missile strike in the Black Sea has claimed the lives of four Indian crew members.
On 19 July 2026, the cargo ship MV Golden Leo left Odesa Port, Ukraine, carrying a shipment of corn (maize). The ship was owned by Mumbai-based Ocean Grace Shipping Ltd. and managed by Friends Shipping Co. It had 17 crew members, including five Indians, along with crew from Syria and a Ukrainian maritime pilot.
Soon after leaving port, three Russian cruise missiles were fired at the ship. One missile struck the bridge and crew accommodation area, triggering a massive fire.
Rescue teams worked through the night. Ukrainian authorities said nine people were killed, including the Ukrainian maritime pilot and four Indian crew members. The fifth Indian crew member was critically injured, while eight others were rescued.
The MV Golden Leo was an unarmed merchant ship carrying grain and was not involved in military operations.
On 20 July, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed the deaths of the four Indians, expressed condolences, and assured support to the injured crew member and the affected families. India also strongly condemned the attack.
The next day, India summoned a senior official from the Russian Embassy in New Delhi, lodged a strong protest, and demanded an explanation and accountability for the deaths of its citizens.
Ukraine has blamed Russia for the strike, calling it a war crime and launching an investigation. Russia has denied targeting the Golden Leo, but said it had carried out strikes on ports and ships it claimed were supporting Ukraine's military.
As fighting between Russia and Ukraine continues to intensify, the incident highlights the growing risks faced by civilian ships operating in the conflict zone.
