**Ukraine Secures Release of 3 Sailors from Houthi Captivity**
Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry and military intelligence agency have successfully secured the release of three Ukrainian sailors who were being held captive by the Houthi rebel group in Yemen. The news was announced on January 23, and comes as part of a broader effort to de-escalate tensions following a ceasefire in Gaza.
The crew members of the Galaxy Leader commercial vessel were captured in November 2023 while sailing through the Red Sea corridor. In addition to the three Ukrainians, sailors from Romania, Mexico, Bulgaria, and the Philippines were also on board. Authorities in the Philippines and Bulgaria have confirmed that their citizens have been released.
Ukraine has led talks on the release of its citizens since the vessel was captured, according to a statement by the Foreign Ministry. The ministry stated that the three Ukrainians are “in good condition” and have all necessary documents.
**Russia’s Military Situation**
Meanwhile, Russia’s military situation remains uncertain. A 47-year-old man was killed in an attack on a Ukrainian city, Governor Ivan Fedorov said. This comes as Russian forces suffered 1,340 casualties over the past day.
In response to President Trump’s call for Moscow to make a deal or face sanctions, Russia’s Deputy U.N. Ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy stated that “it’s not merely the question of ending the war… So we have to see what does the ‘deal’ mean in President Trump’s understanding.”
**International Support**
Ukraine has been receiving international support in its efforts against Russian aggression. The European Union has pledged 35 billion euros ($36 billion) in financial assistance to Ukraine through the G7 ERA credit initiative and the Ukraine Facility program.
President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the importance of international support in achieving a just peace, meeting with leading American and European executives at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
**Investment Potential**
Ukraine’s investment potential was also highlighted by President Zelensky during his meetings. The country has seen significant investment from private sector companies, including DTEK, which has committed to a major energy project.
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