Russia rejects the idea of a ceasefire in the Black Sea

Russia rejected the idea of a ceasefire with Ukraine in the Black Sea today, stating that it sees no justification for “half-measures” that would only provide the other side with a temporary reprieve.

Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, accused Ukraine in a statement of committing “blatant acts of terrorism” against maritime navigation. She said, “We consider these (Ukrainian) attacks to be a deliberate policy aimed at destabilizing civilian navigation in the Black Sea region, with the goal of escalating tensions and prolonging the conflict, in clear collusion with neighboring countries.”

She added, “At the same time, we see no signs of an improvement in the situation, and therefore there is no justification for half-measures that would only give the Kyiv regime a temporary breathing space.”

Zakharova’s comments came in response to statements by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in a media interview, in which he said that Ankara had submitted proposals to Russia and Ukraine to halt military operations in the Black Sea. She noted that Russia had not received an official proposal from Turkey.

Zakharova stated that it was impossible to return to the 2022–2023 Black Sea Grain Initiative, which was brokered by Turkey. The agreement allowed Russia and Ukraine, two of the world’s major grain exporters, to continue supplying global markets. The deal collapsed after Russia accused Ukraine and the West of failing to fulfill their commitments.