Tue Mar 25 12:30:02 UTC 2025: ## Russia Demands US Order to Zelenskyy for Black Sea Shipping Deal
**RIYADH/MOSCOW** – Russia has indicated its willingness to negotiate a new Black Sea shipping safety agreement, potentially paving the way for a wider ceasefire in Ukraine. However, Moscow insists this hinges on a direct order from the United States President to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to adhere to any agreement reached.
Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that only a US directive to Zelenskyy would provide the necessary assurances for Russia. He cited the collapse of the previous Black Sea grain export deal in 2023 as evidence of a lack of trust in agreements with Kyiv alone. Lavrov believes the US holds the key to preventing further attacks on civilian and energy infrastructure, a claim frequently made by both sides throughout the ongoing conflict.
The proposed agreement would replace the previous initiative that facilitated the export of nearly 33 million metric tons of Ukrainian grain. Russia withdrew from the deal last year, citing difficulties exporting its own food and fertilizer due to Western sanctions. While the Kremlin remains tight-lipped on the details of recent US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, Lavrov confirmed the Black Sea initiative was a key discussion point. Further meetings between Ukrainian and US officials are scheduled in Riyadh.
The renewed focus on a maritime ceasefire comes amidst concerns over a potential US-Russia deal that could undermine Ukrainian security. A recent meeting between former President Trump and President Putin raised these fears, particularly after Putin rejected Trump’s proposal for a full ceasefire but agreed to a moratorium on attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Ukraine has expressed willingness to participate in a limited energy ceasefire, provided it’s formally documented. The situation remains tense as both sides await the next steps from Washington.
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