Zelenskyy Accuses Russia of Manipulating Ceasefire Agreements Amid U.S.-Brokered Talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russia on Tuesday of “manipulating” ceasefire agreements reached during negotiations between Moscow and Washington in Saudi Arabia. The White House previously announced that the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine had agreed on measures to ensure safe navigation in the Black Sea, prevent the use of force, and ban strikes on energy facilities. However, the Kremlin stated that these agreements would only take effect once restrictions and sanctions on Russia were lifted, prompting Zelenskyy to denounce Moscow’s stance as deceptive.

In a video address, Zelenskyy claimed Russia was already distorting the agreements and misleading international mediators. He criticized Moscow for linking the Black Sea security measures to sanctions relief and disputed Russia’s claim that the ceasefire on energy infrastructure would begin on March 18. The Ukrainian leader warned that if Russia violated the agreements, Kyiv would respond forcefully. He further urged the international community to impose additional sanctions on Moscow should it fail to uphold its commitments, emphasizing that Russia must prove its willingness to end the war.

Zelenskyy also accused Russia of prolonging the conflict and attempting to deceive the U.S., particularly President Donald Trump. He insisted that neither Ukraine nor the world trusts Moscow’s intentions and called on the global community to hold Russia accountable. While Russian authorities have yet to respond to Zelenskyy’s accusations, the developments highlight ongoing tensions despite the mediated ceasefire discussions.