In a landmark decision, Russia and Ukraine have committed to eliminating the use of force in the Black Sea, ensuring safer navigation in a pivotal move mediated by the United States. This agreement is part of broader peace efforts following intense negotiations in Saudi Arabia.
ABC News reported that the discussions, which involved high-level delegations from Russia, Ukraine, and the United States, concluded with several significant agreements aimed at decreasing tensions and fostering stability in the Black Sea region.
The announcement was made following separate but simultaneous talks held in Saudi Arabia, reflecting a rare cooperative stance in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
At a press conference held on Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy detailed the agreement's key components, highlighting its role as a functional “ceasefire” for maritime activities in the Black Sea.
Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov outlined the agreement's stern prohibitions on the deployment of military vessels by Russia in regions beyond the astern portion of the Black Sea.
Such actions would contradict the newly established commitments and thus represent a direct threat to Ukraine's national security.
Umerov emphasized, "The Ukrainian side emphasizes that all movement by Russia of its military vessels outside of the astern part of the Black Sea will constitute a violation of the spirit of this agreement." He further asserted Ukraine's right to self-defense in case of any breaches.
To ensure the successful implementation of these agreements, Umerov stressed the need for additional technical consultations, aimed at finalizing the details required for monitoring and controlling the execution of these new measures.
Alongside the maritime ceasefire, the talks also led to an agreement on a temporary suspension of strikes against energy facilities in both Russia and Ukraine. This suspension is set to last for thirty days starting from March 18, 2025, with possibilities for extension or withdrawal depending on compliance.
Focusing on economic aspects, a separate deal involving Russia was discussed which aimed at restoring access to global markets for Russian agricultural products and fertilizers.
This is tied to reductions in maritime insurance costs and enhanced access to ports and payment systems, contingent on the lifting of sanctions on certain Russian companies linked to food and agriculture.
A particular facet of the broader negotiations included agreements between the United States and Ukraine concerning the exchange of prisoners of war, the release of civilian detainees, and efforts to return Ukrainian children who were forcibly transferred.
Grigory Karasin, chairman of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs, described the dialogue as complex but productive, indicating a shared sentiment among participants that substantial ground was covered in addressing numerous issues.
The recent set of agreements marks a step towards a more durable peace in the region, reflecting an ongoing effort to alleviate tensions through diplomatic engagement and mutual understanding.
However, both sides have recognized that additional discussions are necessary to ensure the effective carrying out of the current agreements.
As noted by Umerov, "For the effective implementation of the arrangements, it is important to hold additional technical consultations as soon as possible." This emphasizes the ongoing nature of the peace process and the detailed work still required to achieve lasting results.