The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed the release of four Ukrainian crew members from Iran. The sailors were part of the crew of the container ship Epimonidas, which was detained by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in April while navigating the Strait of Hormuz.
Georgiy Tikhiy, a spokesperson for the Ministry, reported that Ukrainian diplomats promptly identified the crew members following the vessel’s detention and maintained communication with their families, the Greek shipowner, and other relevant parties.
“The efforts of the Ukrainian side have concluded positively—our citizens have left Iranian territory and are safe with their families. Their health condition is satisfactory,” stated Tikhiy.
In a related development, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has announced plans for a large-scale operation to evacuate approximately 11,000 sailors currently stranded on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
On June 18, the United States and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at ending hostilities in the Middle East. The agreement was conducted remotely.
The document stipulates that both countries commit to immediately cease all military operations, including combat activities in Lebanon, and to refrain from using force or making threats against each other in the future. A final agreement is expected to be reached within 60 days.
On June 22, Iran and the United States agreed on a roadmap intended to lead to a final accord within the same 60-day timeframe. This announcement followed the first round of negotiations mediated by Qatar and Pakistan in Switzerland.
On the same day, the U.S. Department of the Treasury issued a temporary general license permitting the production, supply, and sale of Iranian oil, effective until the end of August 2026.
The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed the release of four crew members from the detained vessel Epimonidas in Iran. Their release follows diplomatic efforts and coincides with broader discussions between the U.S. and Iran regarding military operations in the region.