The Kremlin said it is in touch with Indian authorities after four Indian nationals were killed in a Russian missile strike
July 21, 2026: The Kremlin on Tuesday confirmed that it is in contact with Indian authorities after four Indian nationals were killed in a Russian missile strike on the cargo vessel MV Golden Leo in the Black Sea. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov made the statement after India summoned the Russian chargé d’affaires following the attack. According to Ukrainian authorities, the Guinea-Bissau-flagged merchant ship was struck by three Russian cruise missiles after departing the port of Odesa.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that four Indian nationals lost their lives in the attack, while another Indian crew member remains in critical condition in hospital. The ministry said the Indian mission in Ukraine is closely monitoring the situation and is extending all possible assistance to those affected. It also expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured sailor a speedy recovery.
In response to the incident, India summoned Russian chargé d’affaires Vladimir Ladanov to the MEA in New Delhi and conveyed its “grave concerns” and “unequivocal condemnation” of the attack. In an official statement, the ministry said the strike on the commercial vessel had resulted in the tragic loss of four Indian lives and reiterated India’s strong objection to attacks that endanger civilian shipping.