Russia and Ukraine Agree to Black Sea Ceasefire

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Russia and Ukraine Agree to Black Sea Ceasefire

Fox News reported Russia and Ukraine agreed to a Black Sea ceasefire following U.S.-led talks in Saudi Arabia. The deal aims to ensure safe navigation, prevent military use of commercial vessels, and eliminate force. However, Ukraine warns Russian naval movements outside the eastern Black Sea would violate the agreement. The Kremlin has tied full implementation to lifting Western sanctions and restoring Russia’s access to SWIFT international banking system. The U.S. seeks a broader ceasefire.

Fox News noted:

The White House made no direct mention of Russia's demands to re-engage with SWIFT and did not specify that the ceasefire was contingent on the Kremlin's demands.

Instead, the White House said in a readout, "The United States will help restore Russia’s access to the world market for agricultural and fertilizer exports, lower maritime insurance costs, and enhance access to ports and payment systems for such transactions."

Additionally, Epoch Times reported the U.S. has proposed a new full-scale critical minerals agreement with Ukraine, moving beyond the previous framework. The deal, valued at up to $500 billion, grants the U.S. access to Ukraine’s rare earth and mineral deposits. President Trump seeks a revenue-sharing agreement and suggests American firms could own Ukrainian power plants. However, challenges remain, as Ukraine’s mineral deposits are difficult to extract and partially under Russian control. President Zelensky said, “I don’t have all the details yet. I’ve asked for a thorough review of the agreement, a clear explanation of all its details, and only then will we convene to discuss it, recognizing that this is a serious document. Most likely, both sides will continue to refine this document.”