Black Sea Ceasefire Stalls as Russia Demands Sanction Relief

Ukraine accuses Russia of ongoing attacks despite a U.S.-mediated agreement, while Western powers reject Moscow's conditions for implementation.

Russia and Ukraine have agreed in principle to a 30-day maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea, but its implementation remains uncertain.
Moscow has tied adherence to the ceasefire to the lifting of sanctions, including SWIFT access, a demand firmly rejected by the EU and Western allies.
Ukraine reports continued Russian attacks on energy infrastructure, undermining trust in the agreement and raising doubts about Moscow's intentions.
French President Emmanuel Macron has called for unconditional Russian compliance, emphasizing that lifting sanctions is premature without a full troop withdrawal.
Diplomatic efforts continue, but analysts argue Russia is using delay tactics to extract concessions while maintaining military operations.