New Delhi Summons Ukrainian Envoy After Fatal Black Sea Drone Strike
The Ministry of External Affairs lodged a formal protest following the death of an Indian seafarer on the merchant vessel MV Omorfi. Ukraine's ambassador was called to explain the targeting of commercial shipping during recent hostilities.
Diplomatic Confrontation Over Maritime Fatality
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoned Ukrainian Ambassador Dr. Oleksandr Polishchuk to Jawaharlal Nehru Bhawan on Monday, July 27, 2026. The diplomatic summons follows the death of an Indian national serving aboard the MV Omorfi, a merchant ship targeted during recent combat operations in the Black Sea.
Condemnation of Attacks on Commercial Shipping
Indian officials conveyed a formal protest to the envoy, characterizing the strike on civilian infrastructure as an unacceptable breach of international norms. Reports indicate the MV Omorfi was hit by Ukrainian drone strikes as regional fighting between Russia and Ukraine intensified. The MEA issued the following demands and observations during the meeting:
- India condemned the deliberate targeting of merchant vessels in the strongest possible terms.
- The ministry highlighted the severe risks these actions pose to the safety of global maritime navigation and international trade.
- Officials demanded that Ukrainian authorities prevent future incidents that endanger the lives of civilian seafarers.
The MEA statement emphasized that the loss of innocent life in international waters remains a point of serious concern for New Delhi. By summoning Polishchuk, India signaled its intent to hold combatants accountable for the safety of its citizens working in high-risk zones. The ambassador was requested to relay New Delhi’s grievances directly to the highest levels of the Ukrainian government to ensure such hostilities against non-combatant shipping are not repeated.
Source: The Hindu — World