Kremlin Conditions Black Sea Security Deal on Lifting Sanctions

The Kremlin has stated that a Black Sea maritime security deal with the United States can only be activated after specific conditions are met, emphasizing that previous agreements did not adequately address Russia's needs. Following recent negotiations, the U.S. has reached separate agreements with both Ukraine and Russia to cease military actions in the Black Sea and pause attacks on energy targets, with potential sanctions relief for Russia being discussed. Key demands from Moscow include the reconnection of its state agricultural bank, Rosselkhozbank, to the SWIFT payment system, as well as lifting restrictions on food and fertilizer exports. The Kremlin has made it clear that the truce will not take effect until these financial barriers are addressed. Additionally, discussions are ongoing about developing measures to ban strikes on energy facilities in both countries. The situation remains tense as both sides navigate the complexities of these agreements.