Wed Mar 26 19:11:52 UTC 2025: ## Ukraine and Russia Trade Accusations of Breaking US-Brokered Energy Infrastructure Deal

**Kyiv, Ukraine** – A tentative U.S.-brokered agreement to halt attacks on energy infrastructure in Ukraine has reportedly broken down, with both Russia and Ukraine accusing each other of violating the terms. The deal, announced Tuesday, aimed to pause strikes on energy sites and ensure safe Black Sea shipping. It followed three days of separate U.S.-mediated talks with both countries in Riyadh.

The Russian Defense Ministry claimed Ukrainian drone strikes hit energy facilities in the Bryansk and Kursk regions, causing widespread power outages. Ukraine’s General Staff vehemently denied these allegations, calling them part of a disinformation campaign.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed Ukraine’s willingness to abide by the agreement, but warned of strong retaliation should Russia continue attacks. His communications adviser, Dmytro Lytvyn, publicly stated that Russia had repeatedly violated the ceasefire, citing numerous attacks on Ukrainian energy facilities.

While the White House announced that both sides had agreed to ensure safe navigation in the Black Sea, the Kremlin insisted that sanctions against Russian agricultural banks must be lifted before any deal could be implemented. Mr. Zelenskyy denounced these demands as manipulative. The White House indicated it would work to restore Russia’s access to global markets for agricultural exports.

Despite the apparent breakdown of the energy ceasefire, both sides continue to engage in discussions. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia and the U.S. are maintaining intensive and productive dialogue, expressing hope for a revival of the 2022 Black Sea Grain Initiative if their demands regarding agricultural exports are met.

Meanwhile, Zelenskyy’s hometown of Kryvyi Rih suffered a major drone attack Tuesday night, targeting civilian infrastructure. While there were no casualties, significant damage was reported. Ukraine’s air force reported that it destroyed 56 of 117 Shahed drones launched overnight. Other regions also experienced attacks, though no injuries were immediately reported. The ongoing conflict underscores the significant challenges in achieving a broader peace agreement.

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