Black Sea Ceasefire Falters as Russia Pushes for Sanctions Relief

European leaders reject Moscow's demands, while drone strikes and mutual accusations of violations continue to undermine the fragile truce.

The U.S.-brokered agreements to halt Black Sea and energy infrastructure attacks remain tenuous, with continued violations reported by both Russia and Ukraine.
Russia has tied its adherence to the ceasefire to the lifting of sanctions, including access to the SWIFT payment system, a condition firmly rejected by European leaders.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and European leaders, including Emmanuel Macron, accuse Russia of manipulating agreements and continuing hostilities, casting doubt on Moscow's intentions.
France announced a €2 billion military aid package for Ukraine, as European nations discuss forming a 'coalition of the willing' to provide security guarantees and potentially deploy peacekeeping forces.
Drone and missile strikes from both sides have persisted, with recent Russian attacks injuring over 20 people in Ukraine and Kyiv denying accusations of targeting Russian energy infrastructure.