Russia and Ukraine Agree to Ensure Safe Passage of Ships and Work on Prisoner Exchange

Russia and Ukraine have agreed to ensure the safe passage of commercial ships in the Black Sea and to prevent military attacks, as confirmed by the White House.

The United States further stated that both countries will collaborate on exchanging prisoners of war, releasing imprisoned civilians, and repatriating Ukrainian children who were forcibly taken to Russia.

However, Russia has demanded that the US lift sanctions on Moscow's banks and food exporters before the ceasefire agreement takes effect. It is worth noting that the US held separate meetings with officials from both Ukraine and Russia in Saudi Arabia to facilitate the agreement.

President Zelensky has welcomed the agreement but emphasized that it is too early to determine its effectiveness.