Kremlin outlines its conclusions from meeting with US: No ceasefire at sea without conditions
Illustrative photo: Russia rejected a ceasefire with Ukraine at sea without conditions (screenshot)
Russia has released a final statement following a meeting with US officials in Saudi Arabia. It includes, in particular, the conditions for a ceasefire with Ukraine at sea, according to the Kremlin's press service.
Ceasefire at sea
As noted by the Kremlin, as a result of negotiations, the US and Russia agreed to ensure the safety of shipping in the Black Sea, particularly through "the organization of appropriate control measures by inspecting vessels."
The US also promised to assist in the restoration of Russian exports of agricultural products and fertilizers to other countries, reduce the cost of maritime insurance, and expand access to ports and payment systems for conducting such transactions.
The Kremlin emphasizes that these agreements can only take effect after:
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Lifting sanctions on Rosselkhozbank and other financial institutions involved in facilitating international trade in food and fertilizers;
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Connecting these organizations to SWIFT;
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Lifting sanctions on food and fertilizer manufacturers and exporters;
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Lifting restrictions on servicing vessels in ports and sanctions on ships flying the Russian flag;
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Lifting restrictions on the supply of agricultural machinery to Russia.
Energy ceasefire
Russian and US officials also agreed to develop measures to implement a ban on strikes against energy infrastructure in Ukraine and Russia for 30 days, "starting from March 18."
Both sides welcomed the "good offices" of third countries aimed at supporting the implementation of a partial ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia.
The US and Russia agreed to continue working towards achieving a strong and lasting peace.
Final statement from the White House
The White House released its own final statement following talks between US and Russian officials in Saudi Arabia.
This statement differs somewhat from the one published by Russia. In particular, the White House made no mention of lifting sanctions on Russia for a ceasefire in the Black Sea.
