Russia has indicated it will accept the Black Sea agreement if the U.S. directs Zelenskiy

On Tuesday, Russia expressed its readiness to negotiate a new agreement regarding the safety of shipping in the Black Sea, which could potentially pave the way for a ceasefire with Ukraine. However, this willingness is contingent upon the United States instructing President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to adhere to the terms.

Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that only such a directive would provide the necessary assurances for Russia.

Both parties have criticized each other for the breakdown of a previous agreement in 2023, which aimed to secure the safety of merchant vessels in the Black Sea, following Russia’s deployment of tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine in February 2022.

“We require clear guarantees. Given the unfortunate history of agreements solely with Kyiv, these guarantees can only stem from an order from Washington to Zelenskiy and his administration to act accordingly,” Lavrov remarked during a televised address. “It appears that our American counterparts have received this message. They recognize that only Washington can facilitate positive outcomes in halting terrorist activities and preventing attacks on civilian and energy infrastructure unrelated to the military-industrial sector.”

Russia often accuses Ukraine of engaging in “terrorist” actions, while Kyiv has similarly labeled Russian assaults that have resulted in numerous civilian casualties throughout the three-year conflict.

Lavrov’s statements suggest that Russia will seek increased U.S. pressure on Zelenskiy before agreeing to a maritime ceasefire, which Washington views as a crucial step toward a broader peace agreement. Concerns have arisen in Kyiv and among its European allies following a recent unsuccessful meeting between Zelenskiy and Trump at the White House, fearing that Trump might negotiate a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin that could compromise their security interests.

SUCCESSOR TO BLACK SEA AGREEMENT

The proposed maritime ceasefire aims to replace the previous Black Sea agreement, which enabled Ukraine to export nearly 33 million metric tons of grain safely amid the ongoing conflict. In 2023, Moscow withdrew from the deal, citing significant challenges to its own food and fertilizer exports due to Western sanctions impacting payments, logistics, and insurance. Ukraine had previously accused Russia of hindering the initiative.

Lavrov emphasized the need for a “predictable” market for grain and fertilizer, expressing skepticism about trusting Zelenskiy’s assurances, a sentiment Zelenskiy frequently directs at Putin. The Black Sea initiative was a key topic during discussions between U.S. and Russian officials in Saudi Arabia on Monday, according to Lavrov.

The Kremlin announced earlier on Tuesday that both Russia and the U.S. were evaluating the results of the talks, although specific details would remain confidential.

Ukrainian national broadcaster Suspilne reported that Ukrainian and U.S. officials were scheduled to meet in Riyadh on Tuesday. Last week, during a conversation between Trump and Putin, the Russian leader rejected a U.S. proposal for a comprehensive 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine but agreed to a temporary halt on attacks against Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Ukraine has indicated its willingness to participate in a limited energy ceasefire, provided it is properly formalized.