Russia and Ukraine have agreed to ensure safe passage for commercial transport in the Black Sea and to stop military strikes, the White House said Tuesday after American officials met representatives from both Saudi Arabia countries.
The deal lacks a complete suspension in the war that has been raging in Ukraine since Russia launched a “special military operation” in February 2022.
The US reached separate deals between Ukraine and Russia on Tuesday, suspending attacks at sea, suspending attacks on energy targets, and Washington agreed to push for lifting sanctions against Moscow, according to Reuters.
It was not clear when or how the Black Sea Maritime Security deal would begin, but the agreement is the first formal commitment of two fighting sides since US President Donald Trump took office. Trump claims he is seeking an end to the war in Ukraine and a rapid reconciliation with Moscow, which surprised Kiev and European countries.
The US agreement with Russia is further than the agreement with Ukraine, with Washington pledging to help seek lifting international sanctions on Russian agriculture and fertilizer exports.
MNA/