Russia and Ukraine have reached an agreement on a naval ceasefire in the Black Sea following peace talks in Saudi Arabia. The deal, mediated by the US, aims to reopen vital trade routes and reduce military activity in the region. Both sides have also committed to implementing a previously agreed ban on attacks against each other’s energy infrastructure.

However, Russia has conditioned the ceasefire’s activation on the lifting of sanctions that affect its food and fertilizer exports. These sanctions include restrictions on Russian banks, shipping, and agricultural machinery. The US has agreed to help restore Russia’s access to global markets for agricultural products, but it is unclear when the ceasefire will officially take effect.

Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed cautious optimism about the ceasefire, calling it a step toward peace. However, he also warned that Ukraine would take military action if Russian warships violated the agreement. The ceasefire follows previous agreements, such as the “Black Sea grain deal,” which allowed safe passage for grain exports.

While the ceasefire is a positive development, tensions remain high, with both sides accusing each other of violating ceasefire terms during the talks.