U.S., Russia, Ukraine Agree on Black Sea Navigation Safety

WASHINGTON, March 25, 2025 — In a significant development, the White House announced today that Russia and Ukraine have agreed to a ceasefire in the Black Sea aimed at ensuring safe navigation and eliminating military use of commercial vessels in the area. This agreement follows high-level discussions involving U.S. officials in Riyadh earlier this week.

The accord includes provisions to prevent the use of force and outlines measures for implementing a previous agreement to stop strikes against energy infrastructure. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that the agreement was effective immediately, emphasizing his country’s commitment to dialogue while remaining vigilant against Russian violations.

Both countries will also work toward a durable and lasting peace while continuing to facilitate prisoner exchanges and the return of abducted Ukrainian children. The U.S. reiterated its commitment to assist in restoring Russia’s access to international agricultural markets while addressing maritime insurance costs.

The Kremlin responded with its own readout, confirming the commitment to safe navigation but stressing that U.S. sanctions against Russian banks must be lifted before full compliance. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that any truce would hinge on U.S. intervention to ensure compliance from Ukraine.

Zelenskyy noted that the White House statement lacked specifics regarding sanctions in case of Russian violations of the agreement. He indicated Ukraine would actively seek more military assistance and sanctions from the U.S. if any transgressions occur.

Meanwhile, British authorities expressed hope for continued progress on the agreement but have not yet committed to following the U.S. in easing sanctions against Russia. Human rights advocate Sir Bill Browder criticized any potential easing of sanctions, warning it could enable further Russian military aggression against civilians.

The discussions followed a backdrop of complex geopolitical tensions, with both sides utilizing the pause for negotiations to assess their respective military positions. Previous agreements regarding the safety of shipping in the Black Sea have been fraught with difficulties, largely due to non-compliance from either side. This latest initiative aims to reinstate some level of mutual trust.

A senior official from the U.S. State Department noted that both the U.S. and Ukraine would seek substantial security guarantees in future discussions while also maintaining diplomatic channels open with Russia to ensure that agreements are honored.

Despite these diplomatic efforts, skepticism runs deep. Ukrainian officials remain cautious, recognizing that historical patterns of Russian behavior often include breaches of agreements. Zelenskyy stated during a press conference, “If the Russians violate this, then we will ask for sanctions and more weapons.”

The situation remains fluid as further consultations are expected to occur, aimed at solidifying the terms of the ceasefire and ensuring compliance from all parties involved.