New Black Sea Initiative: A Fresh Maritime Agreement

The Russian Foreign Ministry announced a new Black Sea Initiative, distinct from previous agreements. The initiative involves discussions around removing Western sanctions on food, fertilizer, and shipping to ensure maritime security. This follows the U.S. agreement to assist Russia in lifting these restrictions.

On Thursday, Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, labeled the proposed Black Sea Initiative as a fresh deal, differentiating it from any prior agreements.

Addressing Reuters, Zakharova clarified that this initiative is a new agreement currently under negotiation, aimed at facilitating Russian food and fertilizer exports despite ongoing sanctions.

Earlier this week, Russia disclosed that the United States consented to assist in lifting Western sanctions on key Russian sectors as a precondition for securing maritime peace in the Black Sea.

(With inputs from agencies.)