Russia’s fulfillment of the order of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea on the release of the captured Ukrainian sailors and vessels may be the first signal from the Russian leadership of a real willingness to end the conflict with Ukraine. It was stated by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy when commenting on the decision of the Tribunal.
As known, on May 25, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea declared a decision as regards Ukraine’s suit concerning the detention of the Ukrainian vessels and sailors in the Kerch Strait by Russia. The Tribunal obliged Russia to release the Berdyansk, the Yani Kapu, and the Nikopol, as well as 24 Ukrainian sailors, and return them to the custody of Ukraine. Russia must fulfill the order of the Tribunal promptly.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy also added that by returning the servicemen and vessels to Ukraine, Russia can “make the first step towards unblocking the negotiations and resolving the problems it created in a civilized way”.
“We’ll see what will be the choice of the Kremlin. Still, we are looking forward to welcome our men back at home!” the President noted on his Facebook page.