Ukraine Ready For Maritime Truce With Russia In Black Sea, Says President Zelensky

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his readiness to establish a maritime truce with Russia in the UN General Assembly Meeting. His speech comes ahead of the UN Security Council Meeting on the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has entered its 5th year.

Kyiv is concerned about Russia bombing its energy infrastructure, especially heating facilities and power grids, this winter season and has repeatedly emphasised the need for a ceasefire to end the hostilities.

Ukraine has also attacked Russian shadow fleet vessels in the Black Sea and Russian Ports, refineries and terminals in the region, which forced Moscow to convert its Arctic and Baltic terminals dealing with coal, fertilisers, iron ore, etc. to export grain.

Kyiv said it wants to end the war based on the proposals received from India, Egypt and Turkiye, adding that the decision is now up to Russia.

The above-mentioned countries proposed several options for the restoration of safe shipping operations in the Black Sea, where continuous attacks on ships by Kyiv and the Kremlin have disrupted cargo movements.

Zelensky said that he is waiting for Putin to take the necessary steps to de-escalate the situation, and they need to start somewhere to bring an end to the war, which has had far-reaching consequences for the world.

Wheat prices have increased to their highest in three years, as Black Sea remains unsafe for shipping. Importers in the Gulf, Asia and Africa are finding it difficult to secure wheat and are looking for alternatives.

Zelensky has also met U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss the ceasefire and other security concerns. Marco Rubio, the U.S. Secretary of State, also met Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov yesterday to talk about Ukraine’s intention.

Russia has not stated in this regard as of yet; however, a limited peace deal or a temporary halt on attacks on energy infrastructure, ports and ships is expected.

Zelensky also said that he is ready to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in a meeting organised and attended by U.S. officials, including U.S. President Donald Trump.