You're reading: US Embassy calls on Russia to immediately release captured Ukrainian sailors

The U.S. Embassy in Ukraine calls on Russia to release the Ukrainian sailors captured four months ago and to return the seized boats.

“Exactly 4 months ago, Ukrainian sailors defended Ukraine’s sovereignty and the right of freedom of passage. Freedom, sovereignty, and dignity are core principles that inspired the Revolution of Dignity, and they are as important on the sea as on land,” the Embassy said on Facebook on March 25.

“Russia’s detention of these sailors – as well as hundreds of other Ukrainian heroes who defended their country – is appalling. We call on Russia to immediately return to Ukraine its detained personnel & vessels, and to respect Ukraine’s sovereignty & territorial integrity,” it said.