India Confirms Grain Cargo on Vessel Struck by Russia

Four Indian sailors perished when the MV Golden Leo was struck by missiles while departing Odesa on July 19. While Moscow maintains the vessel was a legitimate military target, New Delhi has officially verified that the Guinea-Bissau-flagged ship was transporting a civilian shipment of grain at the time of the attack.

Editorial·July 24, 2026·reads: 741

India Confirms Grain Cargo on Vessel Struck by Russia

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the cargo status following reports from the Directorate General of Maritime Administration. The vessel, which carried 17 crew members, was hit by three Kh-59/Kh-69 cruise missiles as it exited the port. The strike resulted in the deaths of four Indian nationals and left a fifth in critical condition. Ukrainian authorities reported a total death toll of 10, including six Syrian crew members.

India has lodged a formal diplomatic protest, summoning Russian Charge d'Affaires Vladimir Ladanov to express grave concern. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that the protection of commercial shipping and civilian sailors is non-negotiable. Despite the protest, the Kremlin continues to justify the operation, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov asserting that Russian forces will persist in targeting vessels suspected of transporting military supplies to Ukraine.