India, Ukraine condemn Black Sea attacks on Indian crew

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a phone conversation with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha on Thursday, July 30, 2026, to strongly condemn recent attacks on commercial shipping in the Black Sea that have killed and endangered Indian seafarers. Jaishankar stated that such deliberate strikes by any party are "absolutely unacceptable" and that India condemns them unequivocally.

The high-level diplomatic exchange underscores New Delhi's growing concern over the safety of its nationals in the conflict zone. The ministers discussed specific incidents, including recent strikes near the Ukrainian ports of Odesa and Chornomorsk. According to the ministers' statements, Sybiha briefed Jaishankar on the latest battlefield developments and ongoing peace negotiations. Jaishankar reiterated India's consistent position advocating for resolution through sustained dialogue and diplomacy between the warring parties.

The call follows a series of deadly attacks on merchant vessels with Indian crew. Officials confirmed that five Indian seafarers have been killed and two more are missing following recent strikes. Thirteen Indian seafarers remain stranded aboard the cargo...