A vessel carrying four Indian nationals was struck at the Odesa port in Ukraine, the Indian Embassy in Kyiv confirmed on Monday. The embassy issued a statement saying it is in touch with local authorities and the crew members to ensure their safety.
Incident Details
The vessel, a cargo ship, was reportedly hit during ongoing hostilities in the region. The exact cause of the strike is not immediately clear, but the embassy is monitoring the situation closely. No casualties have been reported so far, and the four Indian nationals are said to be safe.
Embassy Response
In a press release, the Indian Embassy stated: "We are aware of the incident involving a vessel with four Indian crew members at the Odesa port. We are in constant touch with the local authorities and the shipping company to ensure the well-being of the Indian nationals. Our Embassy remains available for any assistance." The embassy has also activated a helpline for family members seeking information.
Context and Impact
The Odesa port has been a flashpoint in the conflict, with frequent strikes affecting maritime traffic. According to shipping sources, the vessel was anchored at the port when it was hit. Operations at the port have been disrupted, and the incident underscores the ongoing risks to commercial shipping in the region. The Indian government has repeatedly advised citizens to avoid travel to Ukraine and for those already there to stay in safe locations.
As of the latest update, the four Indians remain on board the vessel, and efforts are underway to assess the damage and plan for their evacuation if necessary. The embassy continues to coordinate with Ukrainian authorities to ensure their safety.
