Ukraine returns four sailors from container ship detained by Iran24.06.2026 – 16:26

Four Ukrainian sailors from the Epaminondas container ship, which was detained by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in the Strait of Hormuz in April, have left Iran and are safe.

This was reported by the spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Heorhiy Tykhyi, Ukrinform reports.

According to him, in April, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps detained a number of vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, including the Epaminondas container ship. There were four Ukrainian citizens on board.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that the Consular Service Department and the Embassy of Ukraine in Greece have identified the Ukrainian sailors and are in contact with their families, the Greek ship-owning company, and other parties.

“Four of our citizens have already left the territory of Iran. They are now safe with their families. Their health is satisfactory,” Tykhy said.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs thanked the diplomats of the partner countries, representatives of the shipowner and everyone who participated in the return of the Ukrainian sailors.

The container ship Epaminondas sails under the flag of Liberia. There were 21 crew members on board the ship, including Ukrainian and Filipino sailors.

The Iranian side previously stated that the ship allegedly manipulated navigation systems, turned off AIS and was used by the US military.