Ukrainian Sailors Released from Detained Tanker in the US
Sixteen Ukrainian sailors who had been aboard a US-detained “shadow fleet” tanker have already been released, but they say they do not intend to return to Ukraine—citing fears of persecution and possible charges of treason. Of the seventeen Ukrainians, only the chief mate remains under arrest.
The crew included residents of Odesa and Kherson, as well as one sailor from Kyiv. When they were hired, the sailors were told the vessel had no links to Russia and was not under sanctions; the shipping company was registered in the Seychelles, and a route toward Venezuela was not initially part of the plan.
Testimony Provided by Five Ukrainians
After the tanker switched to a Russian flag and was detained by US authorities, five Ukrainians gave testimony to the FBI. The rest were purchased tickets to destinations of their choosing and released. Earlier, two Russian nationals who had been aboard were also freed—one of them a resident of Crimea.
The released sailors have expressed concerns about potential repercussions in Ukraine if they return home. They have chosen not to disclose their current locations or plans for fear of retribution. The chief mate remains under arrest, with the US authorities investigating possible connections between the tanker and Russian interests.
Investigation Ongoing
The investigation into the detained tanker is ongoing, with US authorities seeking to determine the vessel’s true ownership and purpose. The incident has raised questions about the effectiveness of international sanctions against Russia and the role of shadow fleets in circumventing these restrictions.
Original Article: Sixteen Sailors Were Released From a Detained Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker in the US — Sfg