**US, Russia, and Ukraine Agree to Ceasefire**
After three days of talks in Saudi Arabia, the US, Russia, and Ukraine have agreed on a ceasefire. Two separate texts outline agreements between the US and Russia, and the US and Ukraine.
The main points of the agreement are:
* To ensure safe navigation in the Black Sea
* To eliminate the use of force and prevent commercial vessels from being used for military purposes
* To develop measures to implement an agreement banning strikes on energy facilities in Russia and Ukraine
Ukrainian President Zelensky said that his country would immediately implement the Black Sea and energy ceasefires. He also got a commitment from the US to help with prisoner exchanges, civilian detainee releases, and the return of forcibly transferred Ukrainian children.
**But There’s a Catch**
However, a third document issued by the Kremlin has introduced new conditions. The Black Sea ceasefire will only come into force when sanctions are lifted on Russian banks, insurers, companies, ports, and ships. This means that Russia can continue to export agriculture and fertiliser goods, which is seen as an opportunity to roll back economic sanctions.
This development may delay any maritime ceasefire and could also be difficult for the US to implement, as it would require EU approval. The 30-day pause on energy strikes will be back-dated to start on March 18 and can be suspended if either side violates the deal.
**A Fragile Step Towards Peace**
The agreement is seen as a fragile step towards reducing fighting in Ukraine. However, there’s no guarantee of success due to an atmosphere of mutual distrust. Even if the agreement survives, it’s still far from a comprehensive countrywide ceasefire that the US originally wanted.
As one expert noted, “ceasefires are processes, not events.” The proof of this agreement will be in its implementation, and whether both sides can make it work. Will they use the deal to trade while pressing home their advantage on the battlefield, or do they genuinely want a longer-term peace? Only time will tell.
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