Russia and Ukraine ‘agree Black Sea ceasefire’

According to a US government statement from the White House, both Russia and Ukraine have agreed to ensure safe passage for commercial shipping and stop military strikes in the Black Sea.

The US, Russia and Ukraine “have agreed to ensure safe navigation, eliminate the use of force, and prevent the use of commercial vessels for military purposes in the Black Sea,” the statement said.

However, it is reported that Russia is insisting that a number of sanctions against its food and fertiliser trade are lifted before any ceasefire takes effect.

Four seafarers were killed last week in a missile strike on a ship loading grain at Odesa port. At the same time, risk intelligence service Ambrey reports that an increasing number of commercial ships near Russian ports have been suffering unexplained hull damage thought to have been caused by explosive devices attached below the water line.

"From the beginning of the war in Ukraine, seafarers from all over the world have paid a heavy price on ships trapped in the Black Sea,” commented Deborah Layde, Chief Executive of The Seafarers' Charity. “Today's words must be accompanied by meaningful action to ensure safe passage for seafarers is strictly maintained. Any maritime ceasefire must be a practical solution which prioritises the safety of seafarers who keep the world's supply chains running."