Indian embassy monitors Ukraine's Odesa strike; two Indians safe, search on for two others

NEW DELHI: The Embassy of India in Ukraine on Sunday said it is closely monitoring the situation after the merchant vessel MV AGN Ragnar was struck at the Port of Odesa on July 25, with four Indian nationals onboard.In a statement posted on X, the embassy said two of the four Indian crew members have been confirmed safe, while information regarding the remaining two is awaited."Embassy of India in Ukraine is monitoring the situation after the vessel MV AGN Ragnar was struck at the Port of Odesa on July 25. Four Indian nationals were on board the vessel. As per the latest information, two have been confirmed safe, and information is awaited regarding the other two nationals. Search and rescue operations are underway. The Embassy is in constant touch with the concerned authorities," the embassy said.The mission said it is maintaining close coordination with Ukrainian authorities as search and rescue operations continue. The embassy also shared its Point of Contact for Indian nationals requiring assistance:Email: cons.kyiv@mea.gov.inAlternate Email: cons1.kyiv@mea.gov.inEmergency Contact: +380933559958 (Mr. Aji Kumar, Second Secretary – Consular)Odesa, Ukraine's largest port on the Black Sea, has been a frequent target of Russian missile and drone attacks since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022. Commercial shipping in the Black Sea has also faced periodic disruptions despite international efforts to keep maritime trade routes operational.India has consistently advised its citizens against travelling to Ukraine due to the ongoing conflict and has continued to provide consular assistance to Indian nationals residing in the country.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.