Zelenskyy: Ceasefire in the Black Sea and Energy Sector Takes Effect Today

A 30-day ceasefire agreement in the Black Sea and a mutual ban on strikes against energy infrastructure between Ukraine and Russia, brokered with US involvement, comes into effect today.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the development during a meeting with journalists on March 25, following negotiations in Saudi Arabia involving delegations from Ukraine, the United States, and Russia.

According to Zelenskyy, Ukraine and the US reached a joint statement outlining commitments to maritime security and civilian infrastructure protection, while a separate US-Russia declaration addressed related issues. Kyiv declined to sign a unified trilateral document due to differing positions on sanctions and Russian agricultural exports.

“We agreed on silence at sea and free navigation. We are grateful to the American side for this result,” Zelenskyy said. He added that Ukraine submitted to Washington a list of strategic infrastructure sites requiring enhanced protection.

One of the key points of the talks was the prohibition of strikes on energy facilities in both Ukraine and Russia. The US also considers this restriction applicable to broader civilian infrastructure. Zelenskyy noted that Russia’s compliance remains uncertain but emphasized that Ukraine will act constructively.

Both sides also discussed monitoring mechanisms for the ceasefire’s implementation, with the potential involvement of third parties, such as Turkey or European partners. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov raised questions about timelines for enforcement.

According to Zelenskyy, the US indicated that formal implementation could begin once Washington publicly confirms the agreement.

Ukraine declined to include Russian demands related to agricultural exports and port access in the joint statement. “We did not agree to that, as it would weaken our position and the sanctions regime,” Zelenskyy explained.

The Ukrainian-American statement’s fifth point focuses on the return of Ukrainian prisoners of war, civilian detainees, and deported children. In contrast, the Russian-American version addresses trade and logistics issues.

Regarding possible violations of the ceasefire, Zelenskyy clarified that the official statement does not include specific provisions for retaliation. However, he noted that Ukraine has agreed to report any violations, supported by evidence, to the US through established communication channels.

Zelenskyy emphasized that despite technical constraints, US and allied capabilities are sufficient to monitor compliance. “American satellites can detect missile launches and preparations for ballistic strikes,” he said.

The President concluded that while the ceasefire’s success depends on Russia’s actions, Ukraine will fulfill its part of the agreement and expects support from the US if violations occur.