Russia confirms deal with US to ensure shipping safety in Black Sea following Saudi talks

The Kremlin confirmed a deal Tuesday with the US to ensure the safety of shipping in the Black Sea, one day after delegations from Moscow and Washington held consultations in Saudi Arabia.

The White House said in a statement earlier that Russia and the US agreed to “ensure safe navigation, eliminate the use of force, and prevent the use of commercial vessels for military purposes in the Black Sea” following talks in Riyadh.

It said the US would help restore Russia's access to world markets for agriculture and fertilizer exports, and both countries also agreed to develop measures to ban strikes on energy facilities in Russia and Ukraine.

A statement by the Kremlin confirmed the agreements in Riyadh, including ensuring the implementation of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, as well as Washington's help in restoring Moscow's exports of agricultural products and fertilizers.

It noted that the aforementioned paragraphs of the agreement will take effect as soon as certain restrictions and sanctions on Russia are lifted, including those imposed on Rosselkhozbank and other financial organizations.

“Russia and the United States will continue to work to achieve a lasting and durable peace,” it added.