Ukrainian, Bulgarian Sailors Freed from Houthi Captivity Return Home

Ukrainian sailors, along with two Bulgarian and one Romanian crew member, have been released from captivity by Yemen's Houthi rebels. The Ukrainian sailors were part of the Galaxy Leader vessel's crew, captured in November 2023, and returned home thanks to coordinated efforts by Ukrainian special services and international partners. The Bulgarian sailors, Captain Lyubomir Chanev and Senior Mate Danail Veselinov, also spent 14 months in captivity and were welcomed back in Sofia after their release was facilitated by a ceasefire agreement amid ongoing tensions in Gaza. Both groups expressed gratitude for their safe return, highlighting the importance of continued diplomatic efforts to secure the release of hostages. The UN has also welcomed the release and called for ongoing negotiations to prevent future incidents. The situation underscores the complexities of maritime security in the region, influenced by broader geopolitical conflicts.