Six Russians return home from the tanker Unity detained in India

Part of the crew has returned home

Six Russian sailors who had been unable to leave the tanker Unity, detained in India, for several months have returned to Russia. This was reported by the Russian Embassy to the RT television channel. The Russian diplomatic mission stressed that there are no obstacles related to documents or permits for the citizens' return; the Consulate General in Kolkata continues to maintain contact with the ship's captain and the administration of the port of Paradip.

Who remains on board and under what condition

Nine people remain on the tanker: eight Russian citizens, including Captain E.N. Istyagin, and one Egyptian citizen. They will be able to go ashore once the search for a replacement crew is completed: the detained vessel cannot be left without specialists responsible for its safety. A tender for hiring new specialists was opened on November 4, but the date of their arrival on board has not yet been determined. Indian authorities previously confirmed that there were no claims against the crew members themselves.

Context of the vessel's detention

The tanker Unity, flying the flag of Cameroon, has been under detention since May 11, 2026. The vessel arrived in India carrying Russian oil and was blocked due to financial claims against the shipowner; proceedings on the commercial dispute are underway in the High Court of the state of Odisha. During the months of forced stay on board, the sailors, according to their relatives, faced power outages, equipment malfunctions, shortages of drinking water, and communication problems. Russian diplomats worked to secure the crew's repatriation, while an insurance company helped supply the vessel with provisions. Earlier, as Life.ru reported, India was ready to release the Russian sailors on the condition that replacements be found for them.