Comment by the Information and Press Department on the detention of the Russian vessel MV Sevastopol in India

The Indian Coast Guard detained the Russian cargo vessel MV Sevastopol, belonging to the Vladivostok-based Gudzon Shipping Company, as it left the port of Mumbai last week. According to its captain, the vessel is currently anchored in neutral waters 14 miles from the shore.

The local authorities cite an order of the Madras High Court that allegedly authorises the seizure of the vessel and its cargo because of a commercial dispute between its Russian owner and the Indian counterparty.

The Russian Embassy in New Delhi and the general consulates in Mumbai and Chennai are actively working to clear up the circumstances of the case and reduce tensions. We urge our Indian partners to resolve the matter as soon as possible.