The Ukrainian Navy is calling upon the global community to utilize all available means, including the influence of international organizations, to clarify the fate of four sailors from the 'Stanislav' vessel, which sank near Zmiinyi Island due to a Russian missile strike. Families of the missing sailors have been appealing for help for 39 months.

As reported by the Ukrainian Navy on social media, it is crucial to remember those who heroically fought for the liberation of Zmiinyi Island on May 7, 2022, a key stronghold in the Black Sea. During the battle, the vessel was sunk by enemy missile fire; some crew members were rescued, but the fate of four military sailors remains unknown.

These sailors are Oleksandr Sukhorukov, Volodymyr Liashko, Serhii Tukmachov, and Vladyslav Kostiuk - their names and photos have been published by the Navy. Families hold out hope that they may be prisoners of war, but international intervention is needed for their return.

"We need to raise awareness. Apply pressure. Influence international organizations and partners. We must use all available tools to bring our boys back," stated the Navy.

In order to initiate the return of the sailors, the aggressor nation must acknowledge all prisoners. The Navy urges the public and international community to increase pressure on Russia to clarify the fate of the missing military personnel.

In June, a farewell was held in Odesa for Senior Sailor Andrii Sitiavin, who died the same day near Zmiinyi Island during a Russian missile strike on the 'Stanislav'. The sailor's body was recovered only in 2024 after a DNA test was conducted.

The 'Stanislav' was on a combat mission to liberate Zmiinyi and fell under enemy missile attack. The vessel sank, and five crew members, including Sitiavin, went missing.