On Tuesday, Russia expressed interest in signing a new agreement to ensure the security of maritime traffic in the Black Sea. However, it stipulated that the US must instruct Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to comply. According to a White House statement, following technical-level discussions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the US and Russia have agreed to ensure safe navigation in the Black Sea. The deal includes: • Restoring Russia’s agricultural and fertilizer exports • Reducing maritime insurance costs • Easing access to ports and financial transactions As part of the agreement, Russia and Ukraine will be prohibited from attacking each other’s energy facilities.