Foreign Office statement on Russia’s release of three Ukrainian vessels

A Foreign Office spokesperson said:

The United Kingdom welcomes Russia’s return of the three Ukrainian vessels. This is long overdue.

Russia’s seizure of the vessels was contrary to international law. Russia must not hinder passage through the Kerch Straits.

The United Kingdom remains fully committed to upholding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders, including illegally annexed Crimea.