Russia demands lifting of sanctions before Black Sea ceasefire can begin - as Zelenskyy slams Putin's 'manipulation'

The US mediated Black Sea ceasefire deal deal between Russia and Ukraine was confirmed on Tuesday, with both nations pledging to stop strikes on infrastructure and vessels in the region.

However, within hours, the White House suggested it would need to "help restore Russia's access to the world market for agricultural and fertiliser exports, lower maritime insurance costs, and enhance access to ports and payment systems for such transactions".

On Tuesday, Volodymyr Zelenskyy said any US agreement to assist Russia export agricultural products internationally would constitute a "weakening of sanctions".

"Unfortunately, even now, even today, on the very day of negotiations, we see how the Russians have already begun to manipulate," Zelenskyy said.

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