Russia and Ukraine Agree to Avoid Military Strikes on Vessels in Black Sea: White House

New Delhi: The United States said that it had reached separate agreements with Ukraine and Russia aimed at ensuring safe navigation in the Black Sea and prohibiting strikes on energy facilities in both nations. 

White House Statement on Agreements

In a statement, the White House outlined that the U.S. would assist in restoring Russia’s access to global agricultural and fertilizer markets while continuing to facilitate dialogue between both sides. 

The agreements, which focus on maritime security and energy infrastructure, are seen as essential components of a larger effort to establish a lasting ceasefire and advance peace negotiations.

The U.S. emphasized that it will work to reduce maritime insurance costs, enhance access to ports, and improve payment systems to facilitate agricultural exports from Russia. Additionally, measures will be put in place to prevent the use of commercial vessels for military purposes in the Black Sea, marking a significant step toward stabilizing the region.

Russia’s Conditions for Agreement

Despite the announcements, Russia has expressed skepticism regarding the agreements, particularly concerning Ukraine’s commitment. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that Moscow would only sign the Black Sea deal if the United States issued an “order” to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to respect the terms.

Lavrov said, “We will need clear guarantees. And given the sad experience of agreements with just Kyiv, the guarantees can only be the result of an order from Washington to Zelenskyy and his team to do one thing and not the other.”

Ukraine’s Support for the Ceasefire Agreements

In contrast, Ukraine has expressed its support for the ceasefire agreements brokered by the United States. Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed that Kyiv agreed to both a maritime ceasefire and a pause in attacks on each other’s energy infrastructure. Ukraine also welcomed the involvement of third countries to monitor the implementation of these accords.

Umerov said, “Ukraine and the United States held bilateral consultations in Riyadh focused on the security of energy and critical infrastructure, safe navigation in the Black Sea, and the release and return of our prisoners and children.” 

U.S. Involvement in Ongoing Peace Talks

The White House also expressed gratitude to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia for facilitating these crucial discussions in Riyadh. 

The agreements with Ukraine and Russia are part of ongoing efforts to stop the violence on both sides of the conflict and provide a foundation for future peace talks. The U.S. reiterated its commitment to achieving a “durable and lasting peace” in the region, as President Donald J. Trump’s call for an end to the violence remains a guiding principle in these negotiations.